Learn · loan programs
Bank statement loans (self-employed)
Use bank statements instead of tax returns to document income.
What it is
Bank statement loans let self-employed borrowers document income with personal or business bank statements instead of tax returns. They’re non-agency loans, so each lender sets its own rules. Lenders still have to make a good-faith determination that you can repay.
Who it fits
- Self-employed borrowers and business owners
- Borrowers whose tax returns show lower income after write-offs
How it works
- Lenders review 12 to 24 months of statements and apply their own method to calculate income.
- Down payment, credit and pricing differ from conventional loans.
Benefits
- Income can reflect deposits rather than taxable income
- Can work for newer business structures (lender rules vary)
Tradeoffs
- Pricing is usually higher than conventional
- Larger down payments are common
Typical documents
- 12–24 months of bank statements
- Proof of self-employment (license, CPA letter or similar)
- Asset statements
Your lender may ask for more or less. Full list: 1-page document checklist (PDF).
Common myth: “Self-employed people can’t get a mortgage.” Not true: many qualify for conventional or FHA loans with tax returns, and bank statement loans are another path.
More on self-employed, investor and second-look loans.
Last checked October 17, 2026. Sources: CFPB, What is a Qualified Mortgage?
Availability depends on the lender and program funding; ask me which ones I can use for your loan.
Want to know what fits you?
Tell me a little about your situation and I’ll walk you through the options.