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Home loans for self-employed buyers

Quick answer

Self-employed buyers can get conventional, FHA or VA loans by documenting income with (typically) two years of tax returns. The CFPB notes self-employed borrowers need more extensive paperwork. If write-offs shrink your taxable income, bank statement loans qualify you on deposits instead, at higher cost.

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

Which programs help self-employed buyers buy a home?

Documenting self-employed or irregular income (CFPB)

The CFPB notes that self-employed borrowers and those with irregular or seasonal income need more extensive income documentation — typically two years of tax returns, plus profit-and-loss statements. Conventional, FHA and VA loans all accept self-employment income that is documented this way.

Official source: consumerfinance.gov

Bank statement loans (non-QM) (private lender product)

Bank statement loans are non-qualified mortgages offered by private lenders that qualify you using 12–24 months of bank deposits instead of tax returns. Expect higher rates and larger down payments than conventional loans; terms vary by lender.

FHA loan

FHA loans are insured by HUD and allow 3.5% down with a 580+ credit score (10% down at 500–579). They're open to every profession and are often paired with state down payment assistance.

Official source: HUD Handbook 4000.1

Tips for self-employed buyers applying for a mortgage

  • Lenders use net income after deductions — plan write-offs before applying.
  • Keep business and personal accounts separate.
  • One year of self-employment can work if you have prior experience in the same field.

Next: check your state's down payment assistance, your county loan limits, and what you can afford on your salary.

Loan requirements

FHA requirementsVA requirementsConventional requirementsUSDA requirements

Frequently asked questions

Self-employed buyers can get conventional, FHA or VA loans by documenting income with (typically) two years of tax returns. The CFPB notes self-employed borrowers need more extensive paperwork. If write-offs shrink your taxable income, bank statement loans qualify you on deposits instead, at higher cost.

The CFPB notes that self-employed borrowers and those with irregular or seasonal income need more extensive income documentation — typically two years of tax returns, plus profit-and-loss statements. Conventional, FHA and VA loans all accept self-employment income that is documented this way.

FHA loans are insured by HUD and allow 3.5% down with a 580+ credit score (10% down at 500–579). They're open to every profession and are often paired with state down payment assistance.

We haven't verified a state program specifically for self-employed buyers; general state down payment assistance is available to you like any buyer.

Sources

Data last updated October 23, 2026.

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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.