The government-sponsored enterprises have opened a temporary path for lenders that are not ready to meet the UAD 3.6 mandate. A lender that secures the one-time waiver may continue submitting files through the UAD 2.6 framework into 2027.
The exception offers additional implementation time rather than a permanent alternative to the newer standard. Lenders will need to obtain the waiver to use the extended UAD 2.6 timeline.
According to HousingWire, the policy is directed at sellers requiring more time to complete their UAD 3.6 transition. The relief is structured as a one-time measure.
For mortgage-market participants, the decision creates two operating tracks through the transition period: lenders prepared for UAD 3.6 and eligible lenders continuing with UAD 2.6 under an approved exception. The added flexibility may help institutions sequence system and workflow changes while preserving access to the GSE channels.
