Is it required to have a toll free number to reach the bank if you are requiring an escrow? Our vender is asking and says we need one for a new system we are looking at. I have looked again in HUD and do not find any such requirement.

HUD's web site has a section that contains information about RESPA. When the escrow rules first came out, the model forms where codified in the code of federal regulations (CFR). HUD later decided to remove them from the CFR and make them available in the public guidance document section of their web site.

Here's a link to the model form for an initial escrow account disclosure statement. http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/ramh/res/appendixg1.pdf You will see that it mentions the servicers toll-free number at the top of the form.

The following link will take you to the public guidance document section where you can see other disclosures.

http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/ramh/res/respagui.cfm