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Can I get a mortgage if I'm self-employed?

The short answer

Yes. Some loan programs are designed for self-employed borrowers and can qualify you using bank statements, profit-and-loss statements, or assets instead of relying only on tax returns. If a bank has told you no, you may have been offered the wrong program rather than not qualifying at all.

Programs to ask about

  • Bank statement loans
  • Profit-and-loss (P&L) programs
  • Asset-based qualifying
  • Traditional programs using tax returns, when they work in your favor

Get organized early

  • 12 to 24 months of business and personal bank statements
  • A current profit-and-loss statement
  • A business license or other proof of self-employment
  • Recent tax returns, if available

Know the tradeoffs

Alternative documentation programs can have different rates, down payments, or reserve requirements. I'll lay out the options side by side so you can decide with clear eyes.

The bottom line

Being your own boss shouldn't keep you from owning a home. The right program makes the difference.

This is general information, not financial advice or a commitment to lend. All loans are subject to credit approval, and programs vary by lender and eligibility.

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