What does it mean to express intent to proceed after a Loan Estimate?
Short answer
Expressing intent to proceed means you tell a particular lender you want that mortgage application to continue after you receive a . Silence does not count. The CFPB says the lender generally must stand by the estimate for 10 business days; waiting longer can allow a revised Loan Estimate.
Full explanation
When you shop, you can request Loan Estimates from several lenders. After you review them, continuing with one lender is a separate step. The CFPB says you must notify that lender that you want the application to move forward. If you do nothing, the lender will most likely close the file. The lender cannot treat silence as consent.
Estimated terms are generally good for 10 business days. If you wait longer than that to say you intend to proceed, the lender can change the terms and estimated costs and issue a revised Loan Estimate. Ask each lender what form of notice it requires.
After you notify the lender, you typically pay an application or appraisal fee and send full income, asset, and other financial documentation. Delays in those items can delay closing. This is an educational description of the Loan Estimate process, not advice about which offer to accept.
Sources reviewed
My loan officer said that I need to express my —Intent to Proceed— in order for my mortgage loan application to move forward. What does that mean?
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Last reviewed
September 10, 2026