Loan Interviewers and Clerks Salary 2025: $50,020 Median, Decline Ahead
The median salary for Loan Interviewers and Clerks hit $50,020 in 2025, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to about $24 per hour, with the middle 80% earning between $37,330 and $69,770. Nationwide, 164,790 people hold these roles.
How much Loan Interviewers and Clerks earn
The median annual wage for Loan Interviewers and Clerks is $50,020. The mean annual wage is slightly higher at $52,520, reflecting higher-earning outliers.
New hires and those in low-cost areas typically start around $37,330 (10th percentile). Experienced workers in high-paying industries or regions can reach $69,770 (90th percentile).
Pay by state
Location heavily influences earnings. The District of Columbia tops the list at $77,080, followed by Maryland ($59,430), Connecticut ($58,980), Massachusetts ($58,940), and New Jersey ($58,760).
The lowest-paying states are concentrated in the South: West Virginia ($42,490), Alabama ($40,300), and Mississippi ($39,120).
How to become a Loan Interviewer and Clerk
Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent. On-the-job training is the norm; you'll learn loan terminology, verification procedures, and the specific software used by your employer.
Some community colleges offer certificates in banking or finance, but they're not mandatory. If you handle mortgage loans, you may need a Mortgage Loan Originator (MLO) license through the Nationwide Multistate Licensing System (NMLS), which includes 20 hours of pre-licensing education and a background check.
- Step 1: Earn a high school diploma or GED.
- Step 2: Apply for entry-level clerical positions at banks, credit unions, or mortgage companies.
- Step 3: Complete on-the-job training (typically a few weeks to a month).
- Step 4: If processing mortgage loans, obtain an MLO license via NMLS.
Job outlook
Employment is projected to decline by 2.3% from 2024 to 2034, losing about 3,800 jobs. That's due to automation and self-service loan platforms reducing demand for manual clerical work.
Despite the decline, about 13,300 openings per year will arise from workers retiring or leaving the occupation. Those with experience in mortgage lending or with MLO licenses will have the best prospects.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average salary for Loan Interviewers and Clerks?
The median annual salary is $50,020; the mean is $52,520, about $24 per hour.
What states pay Loan Interviewers and Clerks the most?
District of Columbia ($77,080), Maryland ($59,430), Connecticut ($58,980), Massachusetts ($58,940), and New Jersey ($58,760).
Is the job outlook for Loan Interviewers and Clerks good?
No. Employment is expected to decline by 2.3% from 2024 to 2034, but still about 13,300 job openings per year due to turnover.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Loan Interviewers and Clerks data.