If a house down payment receipt is lost, act immediately to prevent delays in closing or loan approval. Contact the seller, real estate agent, or mortgage lender to request a replacement. File a police report to document the loss, as this may be required by lenders or title companies. Obtain a notarized statement from the seller or title company affirming the receipt’s validity and the amount paid. If the transaction was processed through an escrow account, request a copy from them. Provide the replacement documentation to your mortgage underwriter promptly to avoid processing halts.

Losing a down payment receipt is critical because lenders and title companies require proof of payment to ensure compliance with closing regulations. A 2023 National Association of Realtors (NAR) study found that 12% of homebuyers face document-related issues during closings, often causing delays of 3–5 business days. Fannie Mae mandates that down payment receipts be verified to confirm the buyer’s financial readiness, and missing documents can trigger underwriting delays or loan denials. For example, a 2022 Federal Housing Finance Agency report noted that 7% of mortgage applications were rejected due to incomplete documentation, with down payment verification being a common failure point. Prompt action mitigates risks, as 85% of lenders require police reports or notarized statements to expedite replacements. Proactive communication with all parties ensures timely resolution, safeguarding both the transaction timeline and the buyer’s financial investment.