Lenders don't approve people — they approve files. Here's what yours needs to look like before you walk in (or apply online).
1
Prove who you are
Every lender starts here. These docs can't be skipped or submitted late.
Government ID
Social Security Number
Proof of address
2
Prove your income
Lenders want to see 2 years of stable income. Self-employed? You'll need 2 years of tax returns, not just pay stubs.
W-2s (2 years)
Pay stubs (last 30 days)
Tax returns (2 years)
Offer letter (if new job)
💡 Self-employed? Bring 1099s and a year-to-date profit & loss statement. Banks want to see consistency.
3
Prove your assets
For a mortgage, the lender needs to verify your down payment actually exists and isn't a loan from someone else.
Bank statements (2–3 months)
Investment account statements
Gift letter (if using gift funds)
4
Understand your credit
Pull your own credit report before the lender does. Dispute errors now — fixing one wrong item can move your score 20–30 points.
Credit report (annualcreditreport.com)
Dispute letters (if needed)
💡 Score 740+ = best rates. Score 680–739 = decent rates. Below 680 = consider waiting 6 months to improve before applying.
5
Property documents (mortgage only)
Once you have an accepted offer, the lender will also need these to process your loan.
Purchase agreement
Property address
HOA docs (if applicable)