SAFE MLO Fraud, Red Flags & Predatory Lending question: verification call sounds like the borrower

SAFE MLOFraud, Red Flags & Predatory Lending

The employer phone number on a borrower's application is a cell phone, and the person who answers the verification call sounds like the borrower. What is the best next step?

A Accept the verification because someone confirmed the job
B Ask the borrower to have a co-worker call back
C Skip the verbal VOE and rely on the pay stubs
D Verify the employer through an independent source

Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D. Verify the employer through an independent source

Verification must come from the employer through a contact the lender sources independently, such as a directory listing or the state business registry, not a number supplied by the borrower (Fannie Mae Selling Guide, Chapter B3-3 (Income Assessment)). A borrower-supplied cell number answered by someone who sounds like the borrower is a red flag for employment fraud. Source: Fannie Mae Selling Guide, Chapter B3-3 (Income Assessment) (as at 11 Oct 2026).

Common mistake

Using the phone number the borrower provided for the VOE.

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Original study material mapped to the public NMLS Content Outline; not a real test question.Not affiliated with or endorsed by NMLS, CSBS or SRR. Verify figures and rules against current guidance before relying on them.