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Are you struggling to get a mortgage because you lack traditional documents like tax returns? Don’t worry; there’s a solution for you! No tax return mortgages offer a way for individuals to secure a home loan.
Lenders in this space use alternative methods to assess creditworthiness. This article explores the benefits, eligibility criteria, and application process of Mortgage Without Tax Returns, providing a path to homeownership for those without traditional income verification documents.
Let us dive right in!
Why Do Mortgage Lenders Require Tax Returns?
Purchasing a home is a huge investment. Most lenders require tax returns and other traditional documents because they provide a full overview of your financial situation. This gives them insight into your income, debts, and other obligations. With this information in hand, lenders can get a better understanding of whether you can afford the mortgage loan or not.
However, new ways have emerged to determine the borrower’s creditworthiness that does not include traditional documents like tax returns, pay stubs, W-2 forms, etc. This article will provide detailed insights into no-tax return mortgages.
Can You Get a Mortgage Without Providing Tax Returns?
Yes! You can easily get mortgages that do not require tax returns. Some lenders provide Tax Return Mortgages and offer flexibility to borrowers who do not have traditional documents like tax returns, pay stubs, etc., to verify their income and seek mortgages conventionally.
However, these lenders establish borrowers’ creditworthiness through alternate ways, like reviewing their bank statements and asset documents, ensuring they have enough cash reserves through 1099 forms, etc.
Lenders might suggest some additional documents to make up for the lack of traditional documents. Borrowers must also meet certain criteria mentioned below to be eligible for a No Tax Return Mortgage.
Let us start by understanding No Tax Return Mortgage!
Understanding No-Tax Return Mortgages
- No tax return mortgages are a type of mortgage loan that doesn’t require borrowers to provide their tax returns as part of the application process.
- They are best suited for self-employed borrowers, commission-based earners, seasonal workers, and real estate investors who may have difficulty meeting traditional income verification requirements.
- These mortgages can also be advantageous for people with low gross income or low reported income on tax returns due to tax write-offs.
- For this type of loan, lenders establish creditworthiness through alternative ways. They ask for 12-24 bank statements, asset documents, cash reserves, 1099 forms, or any additional non-traditional document they deem fit for the process.
- It’s important to note that no-tax return mortgages may come with higher interest rates or require a larger down payment to compensate for the increased risk to the lender.
- No-tax return mortgages also require higher credit scores and lower DTI ratios.
- Availability and specific requirements for no-tax return mortgages can vary among lenders and may change over time. It is important to contact a trusted mortgage lender to get the best deal. For this, one can trust HomeAbroad to connect them with lenders who specialize in No-Tax Return Mortgages.
- With this mortgage option, borrowers can buy primary residences, investment properties, second homes, etc.
How Does a Mortgage Without Tax Returns Work?
Let us understand how a mortgage without tax returns works by following Joe Grates’ case:
Mr. Grates is a music gig worker with an irregular income. He also lacks tax returns, a traditional document required to get approved for a traditional mortgage. He aspires to own a house in Los Angeles and contacts HomeAbroad to handhold him throughout the home-buying process. After HomeAbroad connects him with a trusted lender specializing in No Tax Return Mortgage, this is how things pan out for him:
- Lenders determine Mr. Grates’ eligibility by reviewing his credit scores, DTI ratio, and overall financial stability.
- Once the lender determines the eligibility, he asks for alternate documents like bank statements, cash reserves, asset documents, etc., to establish Joe’s credibility.
- Satisfied with Mr. Grates’ creditworthiness, the lender proceeds with the mortgage application process. They discuss the loan terms, interest rates, down payment and monthly payment requirements, etc.
- Then, the lender asks Mr. Grates to fill out the application accurately and submit it timely.
- After reviewing the application, the lender finds everything to be in order and approves it.
- The lender finally disburses the agreed loan amount, and Mr. Grates receives it in his bank account in a few days.
Requirements for Mortgage Without Tax Returns?
As mentioned above, borrowers need to meet some criteria to be eligible for a Mortgage Without Tax Returns. These requirements are as follows:
- Credit Score: 600 or higher
- Down Payment requirement: 20-25% of the price
- Debt-to-income Ratio: 40-45% or lower
- Documents: 12-24 months bank statements, P&L statements, cash reserves, asset documents, 1099 forms, etc.
How to Get a Mortgage Without Tax Returns?
Here is a step-by-step process for getting a no-tax return loan:
Step 1: Determining the right loan program
Various types of loans do not require tax returns. Borrowers must determine which type of loan program would suit them the best. For example, real estate investors can opt for a Debt Coverage Service Ratio loan, and self-employed borrowers can choose bank statement loans.
Step 2: Finding the right lender
Finding a lender that provides your chosen loan program and best understands your needs is vital in the home-buying process. It might be challenging to find a lender who offers flexibility and does not include tax returns in the loan application process.
However, you can contact HomeAbroad to make this process a cakewalk. We can connect you with no-tax return mortgage lenders who offer competitive deals and prioritize your needs.
Step 3: Initial review process with the lender
Once you have finalized the lender, during your initial meeting, the lender will check your credit scores, DTI ratio, and overall financial profile to determine your eligibility. If you meet their basic requirements, you will proceed to the next step.
Step 4: Gather the necessary documents
This step includes gathering all the documents that your lender requires to approve your loan. Assemble all necessary documents, such as the last 12 to 24 months’ bank statements, P&L reports, evidence of cash reserves, asset records, 1099 forms, etc.
Additionally, the lender can recommend certain supplemental paperwork. Send the completed application and the gathered supporting documentation to the selected lender. The lender will review the application and the documents.
Step 5: Mortgage approval process and closing deal
Lenders review everything you submit carefully. After being satisfied with your eligibility, the documents you shared, and the application you submitted, they will approve the loan request. Lenders will offer terms and conditions, like loan terms, interest rates, down payment, mortgage payment, etc.
Review them carefully and seek clarification if you find any discrepancies. Proceed to close the deal once you are satisfied with the terms.
Step 6: Receive the loan amount
After the approval and closing, the lender will disburse the agreed-upon loan amount. The loan amount will be transferred to your bank account within a few days.
Loan Options for No Tax Return Mortgage
1. Bank statement loan:
- Bank statement loan targets self-employed borrowers without standard paystubs.
- Lenders assess income based on bank statements and P&L statements for 12-24 months.
- A bank statement mortgage typically requires a minimum credit score of 620 or above, a down payment of 20-25%, and a debt-to-income ratio (DTI) of 45%.
2. DSCR loans:
- The DSCR loan program caters to a self-employed individual and a real estate investor.
- It evaluates the borrower’s debt service capacity based on monthly gross income from investment property.
- A credit score of 620 or higher and a DSCR ratio of 1 or above are required.
- The down payment typically ranges from 20-25%, and applicants must provide specific documents like property appraisal and the 1007 rent schedule.
3. No-Income verification loans:
- No-doc mortgages are designed for self-employed individuals without traditional income documentation.
- Lenders use alternative methods like bank statements, 1099 forms, or assets to assess credibility.
- A credit score of 620 or higher and a down payment of 20-25% are recommended.
4. Asset-based mortgages:
- Asset-based loans provide an alternative to traditional income verification.
- Borrowers use assets like stocks, bonds, and real estate as collateral. Eligibility requires a DTI of 45% or less, a credit score of 620 or higher, and a down payment of 20-25%.
5. Self-employed mortgages:
- The self-employed mortgage program is suitable for those owning 25% or more of a single business or working as contractors/service providers.
- Instead of tax returns or pay stubs, lenders review 1099 forms and cash flow.
- A credit score of 620 or higher and a down payment of 20-25% or more are typically necessary for qualification.
No Tax Return Mortgage Loans Vs. Conventional Loans
Criteria | No Tax Returns Mortgage | FHA Loans | Conventional Loans |
Down payment | 20-25% | 3.5% | 5%-20% |
Credit score | 600 or higher | 580 | 620 |
Tax returns required? | No | Yes | Yes |
Interest rates | Higher than FHA loan and conventional loan | Lower than No Tax Return Mortgage | Lower than No Tax Return Mortgage) |
Current Mortgage Rates in the US
Please take note that the mortgage rates listed here are for informative purposes only and might not correspond to the actual rates provided by lenders. It is vital to keep in mind that No Tax Return mortgage rates could have higher interest rates than standard mortgage loan rates.

As per FreddieMac, U.S. weekly averages as of 08/03/2023 were:
Finding Best Mortgage Lenders Who Do Not Require Tax Returns
Allow HomeAbroad to be your reliable advisor in the No Tax Return Mortgage space, and enjoy a hassle-free experience.
- Our carefully selected network of licensed and knowledgeable lenders guarantees first-rate service with individualized mortgage programs catered to your objectives.
- With our simplified application procedure, you may enjoy adjustable terms that meet your budget and lifestyle while skipping the paperwork and waiting periods.
- Count on our knowledgeable, full-service mortgage lender, who respects transparency and guarantees no hidden costs or surprises, for professional advice and ongoing support. For a dependable and ethical mortgage solution, go with HomeAbroad.
Conclusion
Hope this article solved your queries on a mortgage without a tax return.
No tax return mortgage is a great option for the self-employed, freelancers, and real estate investors. HomeAbroad specializes in finding the right No Tax Return Mortgage lender to match your specific loan needs. Contact us today with any questions you may have about obtaining a no-tax return mortgage! We are committed to helping you get the best deal possible.
FAQs
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Do all mortgage lenders require tax returns?
No, not all mortgage lenders require tax returns. Some lenders offer alternative ways of income verification, such as bank statements, asset documents, or no-income verification mortgages.
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Can you buy a house if you didn’t file taxes?
Yes, it is possible to buy a house without filing taxes. Some lenders offer no-tax return mortgages that cater to self-employed individuals or those with non-traditional income verification.
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Are tax returns needed for FHA loans?
For FHA loans, tax returns are typically required as part of the income verification process by traditional lenders.
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Can I get a mortgage without 2 years of tax returns?
Yes, some lenders offer mortgage options that do not require two years of tax returns, like no-income-verification mortgages or bank statement loans.
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Do mortgage lenders always look at tax returns?
Not always. Some lenders may consider alternative forms of income verification, but it depends on the lender’s policies and the borrower’s financial situation.
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Does FHA require 2 years of tax returns?
FHA loans, just like traditional home loans, often require at least two years of tax returns to verify income stability and creditworthiness.
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Can you get a mortgage with assets but no income?
Yes, asset-based mortgages allow borrowers to use assets like stocks, bonds, or real estate as collateral, making it possible to get a mortgage without traditional income verification.
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Are tax returns required for an FHA loan?
Yes, tax returns are typically required for FHA loans to verify the borrower’s income and creditworthiness.
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Can you get a VA loan without tax returns?
VA loans typically require tax returns as part of the income verification process.
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Can you get approved for a loan without a tax return?
Yes, some lenders offer no tax return mortgages or other alternative income verification options that allow borrowers to get approved without traditional tax returns.
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How do lenders verify tax returns?
Lenders usually verify tax returns by requesting tax transcripts directly from the IRS or by reviewing copies of the borrower’s filed tax returns.
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Do I need two years of tax returns to purchase a house?
Having two years of tax returns is a common requirement for many mortgage lenders to verify income stability and creditworthiness before approving a home loan. However, it is not mandatory. Some lenders offer flexibility and choose alternate methods to verify your income, establish creditworthiness, and approve loans.
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How does no tax return mortgage work?
No tax return mortgages allow borrowers to apply for a loan without providing traditional tax returns. Lenders assess creditworthiness through alternate methods like bank statements, asset documents, and 1099 forms. These mortgages are ideal for self-employed individuals and others with non-traditional income sources.
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What is the credit score requirement for a no tax return mortgage?
The credit score requirement for a no tax return mortgage is typically 600 or higher. However, specific lenders may have varying credit score thresholds, and other factors like down payment and debt-to-income ratio also influence eligibility.
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How much down payment do I need to make for a home loan without tax returns?
For a home loan without tax returns, borrowers typically need to make a down payment of 20-25% of the property’s price. Lenders may require a larger down payment to mitigate the risk of approving a loan without traditional income verification.
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Which lenders offer mortgages with no tax returns required?
Many lenders offer No Tax Returns Mortgages. However, it can be challenging to find the one who best understands your needs and tailors plans according to your financial profile. But, with HomeAbroad, you can easily connect with a certified mortgage lender specializing in home loans without tax returns. Contact HomeAbroad now and experience a hassle-free process.
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What is the typical rate for No Tax Return mortgages?
No Tax Return Mortgage rates are typically higher than traditional loans. These rates depend on lenders to lenders. Contact your chosen lender to get exact interest rates for No Tax Return Mortgages.
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Can I get a mortgage with unfiled taxes?
Getting a mortgage with unfiled taxes can be challenging. Most lenders require tax returns as part of the income verification process. However, some lenders offer options like no tax return mortgages, catering to self-employed individuals, and others with non-traditional income verification. But it is crucial to consult with lenders and understand their specific requirements in such cases.
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Is there a pre-payment penalty for a no tax return mortgage?
The presence of a pre-payment penalty for a no tax return mortgage can vary depending on the lender and the specific terms of the mortgage. Borrowers should carefully review the loan agreement and discuss potential penalties with the lender before finalizing the mortgage to avoid any surprises in the future.

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Prior to co-founding HomeAbroad, Amresh has worked for one of
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