Why might a lender require an impound account?

A lender may require an impound account primarily to ensure that the borrower can meet tax and insurance payments. This account is set up to collect and hold a portion of the borrower's monthly mortgage payment to cover these expenses as they become due. By accumulating funds in advance, the lender reduces the risk of the borrower defaulting on property taxes or insurance, which can jeopardize the lender's investment and the property's value. When the payment due dates arrive, the lender disburses the required amounts directly from the impound account, ensuring timely payment and avoiding potential legal or financial issues for both the borrower and the lender.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the primary purpose of an impound account. While excess funds may accumulate in the account, this is not its main intention. Simplifying the loan approval process is not a direct function of an impound account, and the account does not affect the overall loan amount as it is a method of managing specific recurring expenses tied to the property.