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Version: 2026.08.01

Preparation

The amount of documentation and information required for a mortgage application can seem overwhelming. You can facilitate the application process by collecting as much of the needed information as you can before you begin the online application or appointment with your lender.

The checklist below is a general guide and will get you off to a good start. Some of the items listed may not apply to your circumstances, and your lender may request additional items unique to your situation.

Credit report

Please note that you will be asked to pay for a credit report and an appraisal upon signing the mortgage application. Your loan officer will advise you of the total when you set the appointment.

Property information

  • The purchase agreement will include the legal description of the property and the price.

Personal information

  • Social Security number and driver's license for each borrower
  • Home addresses for the last two years
  • Divorce decree and separation agreements, if applicable
  • Trust agreement, if applicable

Income

  • Most recent pay stubs
  • Documentation of any supplemental income such as bonuses or commissions
  • Names, addresses, and phone numbers of all employers for last two years
  • W-2s for last two years
  • If you are self-employed or earn income from commissioned sales, copies of the last two years' tax returns with all schedules and year-to-date profit and loss for current year, signed by an accountant
  • Documentation of alimony or child support, if this income is to be considered in qualifying for the loan

Real estate owned

  • Names, addresses, phone numbers, and account numbers of all mortgage lenders for the last seven years
  • Copies of leases and two years of tax returns for any rental property
  • Market value estimate

Liquid assets

  • Complete names, addresses, phone numbers, and account numbers for all bank, credit union, 401K, and investment accounts
  • Copies of the last three months' statements for all bank accounts
  • Copies of any notes receivable
  • Value of other assets such as auto, household goods, and collectibles
  • Cash value of life insurance policies
  • Vested interest in retirement funds or IRAs

Liabilities

  • Names, account numbers, balances, and current monthly payment amounts for all credit cards
  • Names, addresses, phone numbers, and account numbers for all installment debt and approximate balances and monthly payments for such items as mortgages, home equity loans, and auto loans
  • Alimony or child support payments
  • Names, addresses, phone numbers, and account numbers of accounts recently paid off, if used to establish credit