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Ethics & Fraudmedium17% of exam

A mortgage company's underwriting guidelines require verification of employment for self-employed applicants but not for traditionally employed applicants. Data shows this policy disproportionately affects Latino applicants who are more likely to be self-employed. The company argues this is necessary for risk management. This situation involves:

Correct Answer

B) A potential disparate impact claim that requires analysis of business justification

This presents a potential disparate impact case because a facially neutral policy (different treatment for self-employed vs. traditionally employed) has a disproportionate effect on a protected class. The lender's business justification (risk management) would need to be evaluated to determine if it's legitimate and whether less discriminatory alternatives exist.

Answer Options
A
Clear disparate treatment that violates fair lending laws
B
A potential disparate impact claim that requires analysis of business justification
C
Permissible risk-based pricing that is legally acceptable
D
Redlining practices prohibited under the Fair Housing Act

Why This Is the Correct Answer

This presents a potential disparate impact case because a facially neutral policy (different treatment for self-employed vs. traditionally employed) has a disproportionate effect on a protected class. The lender's business justification (risk management) would need to be evaluated to determine if it's legitimate and whether less discriminatory alternatives exist.

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