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Bank Statement Loans

Self-employed and your tax returns don’t reflect your business’s full cash flow? A bank statement loan may allow you to use eligible bank statements to help document your income. Your local Fairway loan officer will take the time to understand how your business operates and explore financing options that fit your needs.

Our finances were a bit complicated as business owners and being self employed. [Our loan officer] figured it out when other lenders sent us away!

Lindsey U.
Columbus, Ohio

What is a bank statement mortgage?

A bank statement mortgage is a home loan that uses your bank statements to show your income, instead of relying on tax returns alone. It's built for self-employed people whose write-offs make their taxable income look lower than their real cash flow.

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I know this was a difficult transaction, being a bank statement loan; however, [the Fairway] team continued to push through and made it happen.

— Rita R., Prineville, Oregon


Who are bank statement loans for?

Business owners

The write-offs that lower your tax bill can make your income look low to a lender. Your bank statements can help show what you really earn.

Real estate investors

If you’re an investor, you may be able to use bank statement financing when purchasing or refinancing properties.

Freelancers and contractors

Income that comes from many clients, or varies month to month, can be easier to show through your deposits.

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Articles & advice

A Bank Statement Loan Can Help You Buy a House If You're Self-Employed

Self-Employed Mortgage: How to Qualify for a Home Loan When You Work for Yourself

What Are Non-QM Home Loans, and Who Are They For?

This Mortgage Program Empowers Renters To Become Homeowners — With an Extra Green Incentive

The Rising Appeal of New Construction Mortgages: A Smart Move in a Low Inventory Housing Market

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Bank statement loan benefits and requirements

See what a bank statement loan can do for you, and what it asks of you, before you talk numbers.

Your cash flow counts

Your statements can show income that your tax returns don't.

Built for self-employed people

Made for business owners, freelancers and contractors, not just W-2 earners.

A second look

Been turned down by other lenders? Our bank statement options could give you another chance.

Months of bank statements

The number of months, and whether personal or business accounts count, depends on the program.

A history of self-employment

Lenders want to see your business has been running steadily.

Credit and a down payment

Expect to need a larger down payment than you would with a standard loan.

Compare side by side

Bank statement loans vs standard loans

Both can buy the same home. The difference is how your income is shown.

Standard loan

Uses tax returns and pay records.

Income shown by

  • Tax returns and pay records

Down payment

  • Can be smaller

Best for

  • Steady W-2 income or simple returns

Bank statement loan

Uses your bank statements.

Income shown by

  • Bank statements

Down payment

  • Usually larger

Best for

  • Business owners with big write-offs

Tools & Calculators

Use our mortgage calculators to estimate payments, compare options, and make a more informed decision before your next move.

HELOC Payment Calculator

Enter your line amount to see your minimum payment.

Monthly Payment Calculator

Estimate your monthly payment, including taxes and insurance.

Rent vs. Buy Calculator

Compare your rent with the true cost of buying.

Refinance Calculator

Your loan now vs a new one — see what changes.

Home Affordability Calculator

A few numbers about you, and you’ll see a comfortable price range.

Mortgage Compare Calculator

Two loans in, and you’ll see the difference that matters.

FAQs about loans for Bank Statement Loans

Whether you’re exploring your options, already have a loan with Fairway, or need help finding the right place to go, connect with a loan officer to point you in the right direction.

Loan Servicing

Disaster Relief Hotline

The number of months required varies by loan program. Your Fairway loan officer can explain the documentation requirements for your specific situation.

Depending on the program, you may be able to use eligible personal or business bank statements.

A standard mortgage typically verifies income using documents such as pay stubs, W-2s, and tax returns. A bank statement loan may use eligible deposits shown on your personal or business bank statements to help calculate qualifying income.

Credit requirements vary by loan program and may also depend on factors such as the property, down payment, available reserves, and your overall financial profile.

Not necessarily. Some bank statement loan programs may allow eligible borrowers to qualify without using tax returns to document income. Other documentation may still be required, depending on the program and your financial situation.

Yes. Bank statement loans are generally categorized as non-qualified mortgages, or non-QM loans.

It may be helpful to compare both standard and bank statement loan options. Your Fairway loan officer can review how you earn income, evaluate your financial profile and help identify the financing option that may best fit your needs.

Ready to see if a bank statement loan fits?

It starts with a conversation. Tell us about your business and your plans. Your local Fairway loan officer will reach out and walk you through your options.