Arrange your review before closing day
Ask who will deliver your Closing Disclosure and how you will receive it. Locate your most recent Loan Estimate so you can compare the documents together. Confirm the review period that applies to your transaction with your lender; do not assume every loan uses the same forms.
CFPB's guidance describes consumer mortgage disclosures, not a lender's approval of your application. Preapproval is preliminary, and final approval depends on lender review.
Check more than the amount due
- Check your name, loan amount, loan type and repayment term.
- Compare the interest rate, APR and total monthly payment with your latest Loan Estimate.
- Review mortgage insurance, escrow and expenses payable separately.
- Check lender charges, third-party services, deposits and agreed credits.
- Ask about any prepayment penalty, balloon payment or unfamiliar loan feature.
Ask why a figure changed
Closing costs and cash to close are different totals. CFPB's explainer helps identify charges, credits and adjustments. A difference is a reason to ask for an explanation, not proof that every change is allowed or prohibited. Ask your lender which cost-change rules apply.
If a service or provider is unfamiliar, ask what the charge covers and how the company was selected. Resolve unexplained differences before signing.
Request the rest of the paperwork
The Closing Disclosure is not the entire closing package. Request the note, mortgage or deed of trust, and deed in advance. Fannie Mae's checklist also recommends confirming identification and any outstanding lender documents. Ask the closing agent what you must bring.
Keep the final documents and explanations for your records. Get qualified legal help when you need advice about ownership or contract rights.
Source review
Sources checked October 20, 2026. CFPB's document-review page displays August 21, 2025 as its last-modified date; its Closing Disclosure explainer displays October 10, 2023. Fannie Mae's checklist displays no publication or revision date. This review is not a new rule announcement. General education only, not individual loan or legal advice.
General education only. This article does not offer a rate or guarantee loan approval. Loan options depend on your circumstances and lender review.