Waiting forever on my refinance loan approval - is this normal?

Yeah, that’s pretty much par for the course these days. Even if you send in everything up front, underwriters seem to have their own rhythm - and sometimes it feels like they’re just double-checking for the sake of it. I’ve seen folks get asked about $20 PayPal transfers or random deposits from months ago. It’s not always logical, but they’re just trying to cover every base.

Honestly, being organized is the best you can do. Keep a folder with all your docs and any explanations ready to go. When they ask for something weird (like that Venmo transfer), just give a quick explanation and move on. It’s frustrating, but it doesn’t mean anything’s wrong with your file.

Hang in there - it’s annoying, but it usually works out in the end. The process is slow for everyone right now, so you’re definitely not alone.

Honestly, being organized is the best you can do. Keep a folder with all your docs and any explanations ready to go.

I tried that “super organized” approach and still got hit with a request for a screenshot of my Starbucks rewards account (no joke). At this point, I’m convinced they just spin a wheel and pick random things to ask for. Organization helps, but sometimes it’s just chaos anyway.

At this point, I’m convinced they just spin a wheel and pick random things to ask for.

Yeah, it really can feel that way. Being organized definitely helps, but lenders' requests are sometimes just unpredictable. I usually tell people to prep for the basics - pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements - but then brace for the oddball asks, too. It’s not always logical, but having your info handy at least saves you from scrambling when they do throw a curveball.

I get where you’re coming from. Last time I refinanced, they asked for a letter explaining a one-time deposit from six months earlier - just a birthday check from my aunt. Felt completely random. I’ve learned to keep every scrap of paperwork, just in case. It’s frustrating, but at this point, I’m not surprised by the weird requests. The waiting is rough, but unfortunately, it seems pretty standard these days.

Yeah, the paperwork chase is wild. I remember having to dig up a two-year-old bank statement because of a $200 Venmo from my brother - turns out he was just paying me back for concert tickets. It feels like they want a paper trail for every penny. Super annoying, but I guess it’s just how things go now. Hang in there, it really does seem like everyone’s dealing with this level of scrutiny lately.