Do I have to link my bank to use HomeStart?
No. Linking is optional. You can enter manual funding amounts and still use the planner, roadmap, and affordability-style tools.
Frequently asked questions
Account linking, Plaid, and your data—common questions from users and partners.
Why does HomeStart use Plaid?
Plaid provides the industry-standard Link flow to connect eligible institutions and keep balances updated for your “home fund” totals—so the app reflects money you already have without constant manual updates.
Does HomeStart see my bank username and password?
You sign in to your bank through Plaid’s interface. HomeStart does not provide a separate screen to collect your bank password for Plaid connections—credentials are handled in Plaid Link as described in Plaid’s consumer disclosures.
What data is stored after I link?
The app stores institution and account identifiers, balances, and your allocation choices (for example, how much of an account counts toward down payment vs. reserves) under your Firebase user account in Firestore. See the Privacy Policy for categories and purposes.
Can I disconnect a bank?
Yes. You can remove linked institutions and accounts from your HomeStart profile in the app. That stops new data from those connections from appearing in your plan; timing may vary slightly while the update processes.
Is HomeStart a lender?
No. We do not originate mortgages, lock rates, or underwrite loans. The app is for planning and education.
Who can I contact about privacy or security?
Email hello@homestartapp.com for privacy questions, or security@homestartapp.com for security vulnerabilities (see our Security overview). You can also use the Contact page.