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Get Pre-Approved

How to Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage (Step by Step)

Quick answer

To get pre-approved for a mortgage, check your credit, calculate a comfortable budget, gather pay stubs, W-2s or tax returns and bank statements, then apply with one or more lenders. The lender pulls your credit, verifies your income and assets, and issues a pre-approval letter — often within one to three business days.

By Purchase Mortgage Loan Editorial Team Checked against official sources per our editorial standardsLast updated

Step by step

  1. 1

    Check your credit

    Pull free reports at AnnualCreditReport.com, dispute errors and pay down credit card balances below 30% of their limits.

  2. 2

    Set your budget

    Use an affordability calculator to find a price where your total monthly housing cost stays near 28%–31% of gross income.

  3. 3

    Gather documents

    Collect ID, pay stubs, W-2s or tax returns, bank and investment statements, and explanations for any large deposits.

  4. 4

    Compare lenders

    Request pre-approvals or Loan Estimates from several lenders to compare rates, fees and service.

  5. 5

    Submit your application

    Authorize a credit check and upload your documents. Respond quickly to any follow-up questions.

  6. 6

    Receive your letter

    Review the approved amount and expiration date, and keep your finances stable while you shop.

What do lenders look at for pre-approval?

  • Credit score and history
  • Debt-to-income ratio (DTI)
  • Employment and income stability (typically 2 years)
  • Assets for down payment, closing costs and reserves

How long is a pre-approval good for?

Most pre-approval letters are valid for 60 to 90 days because credit and income documents go stale. If yours expires, the lender can usually refresh it with updated pay stubs and bank statements.

Frequently asked questions

Yes. Many lenders let you apply and upload documents online, and a loan officer reviews them before issuing the letter.

No. Final approval depends on the appraisal, title, and your finances staying the same through closing.

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Figures on this page are estimates for educational purposes only and are not a loan offer or commitment to lend. Rates, loan limits, fees and assistance programs change frequently and vary by lender, location and borrower profile. Confirm current terms with a licensed loan officer.