If you’re looking for the documents needed to buy a house as a first-time buyer, you’re not alone — and you’re smart to plan ahead. The mortgage process involves quite a bit of paperwork, but gathering everything early can reduce stress and help your loan move smoothly from application to approval. Below is your home loan checklist with everything you’ll need to apply with confidence.

1. Income Verification

Your lender needs to confirm your income to determine how much you can afford to borrow. Be prepared to provide:

• Pay stubs from the last 30 days
• W-2 forms from the past two years
• Tax returns (especially if you’re self-employed or have multiple income sources)
• Proof of additional income, such as bonuses, alimony, or freelance work

2. Asset Verification

To verify you have funds for a down payment and closing costs, you’ll need to provide:

• Bank statements (checking, savings) from the last 2–3 months
• Retirement or investment account statements (401(k), IRA, stocks, etc.)
• Gift letter if you’re receiving funds from a family member, stating the money is a gift, not a loan

💡 Pro-Tip: Avoid large unexplained deposits in your bank accounts during the loan process — they could raise red flags for underwriters.

3. Employment Verification

Most lenders will reach out to your employer to confirm your job and salary. But you may also need to submit:

• Contact information for your employer
• Letter of employment, especially if you recently changed jobs
• Year-to-date profit and loss statement, if you’re self-employed

4. Credit and Debt Information

Your credit history plays a big role in your mortgage approval. Lenders will pull your credit report, but they may also request:

• Statements for current debts, including credit cards, student loans, and car loans
• Documentation for any past bankruptcies or collections, if applicable
• Explanations for any credit report errors or discrepancies

5. Personal Identification

To confirm your identity, you’ll need:

• A valid government-issued ID (driver’s license or passport)
• Your Social Security number or card
• Your residency history (past two years of addresses)

6. Optional But Helpful Documents

Depending on your situation, your lender may also ask for:

• Divorce decree or child support documentation
• Rental payment history, especially if you’re applying for an FHA loan
• Student loan deferment or forbearance letters

7. Why These Documents Matter

Lenders use this information to evaluate your debt-to-income ratio, creditworthiness, and ability to repay the loan. Providing everything up front helps avoid delays in underwriting and keeps your closing timeline on track. It also shows sellers and agents that you’re a serious buyer — a big advantage in a competitive market.

Be aware that some lenders may request updated documentation right before closing — for example, a fresh pay stub or bank statement. Keeping everything organized and accessible ensures you’re ready to respond quickly if that happens.

You can also check out the CFPB’s mortgage application checklist to download a printable version of what you’ll need.

8. Final Tip for First-Time Buyers

Keep your documents in a dedicated folder (digital or physical) and send files promptly when requested. Even after your loan is submitted, underwriters may ask for updated versions of pay stubs or bank statements.

➡️ Also read: How Much House Can I Afford as a First-Time Buyer?