What Documents Do I Need for a Mortgage Application?
Complete checklist of documents required for home loan applications to ensure a smooth approval process.
Gathering the right documents before applying for a mortgage speeds up the approval process and prevents delays. Lenders require extensive documentation to verify your income, expenses, assets, and financial stability. Being organized and prepared with these documents can mean the difference between 3-day approval and 3-week delays.
Identity Documents
Primary ID: Current Australian driver's license or passport. Secondary ID: Medicare card, birth certificate, or citizenship certificate. If you've changed your name (marriage, deed poll), provide marriage certificate or change of name documents. Lenders verify your identity against government databases, so ensure all documents are current and match your application details.
Income Verification (PAYG Employees)
Last 2 consecutive payslips showing year-to-date earnings. Recent tax return or Notice of Assessment from ATO. Employment contract or letter from employer confirming position and salary. If you receive overtime, bonuses, or allowances regularly, provide 6-12 months of payslips to demonstrate consistency. Bank statements showing salary deposits for 3-6 months.
Income Verification (Self-Employed)
Last 2 years of full tax returns including all schedules and balance sheets. ATO Notice of Assessments for both years. Business bank statements for 3-6 months. ABN registration certificate. If your business is a company or trust, provide financial statements prepared by your accountant. Some lenders may accept 1-year tax return for established businesses, but 2 years is standard.
Asset and Savings Verification
3-6 months of bank statements showing your deposit savings (genuine savings must be held for 3+ months). Proof of any gifts from family members (signed statutory declaration from the giver). Super account statements if using FHSS. If selling an existing property to fund purchase, provide contract of sale. Investment property rental statements or lease agreements.
Liability Documents
Recent statements for all credit cards, personal loans, car loans, and HECS-HELP. Mortgage statements if you own property with existing debt. Lease agreement if you're currently renting (proves your ability to afford regular payments). If you have any paid defaults, provide payment receipts and paid-in-full letters from creditors.
Purchase and Property Documents
Contract of sale signed by all parties. Building and pest inspection reports. Strata report if purchasing apartment or townhouse. Council rates notice or rental appraisal for investment properties. If building, fixed-price building contract and council-approved plans. For refinancing, current mortgage statement and property valuation (sometimes required).
Additional Documents for Special Situations
Visa and work permits (temporary residents). Divorce/separation agreements if paying child support or maintenance. Statutory declarations explaining credit defaults or employment gaps. Accountant-prepared profit and loss statements for recent business performance. Gift letters and proof of funds from family guarantors.
Key Takeaways
Being thoroughly prepared with documentation demonstrates financial organization and speeds up approval. Start gathering documents before you apply—don't wait for the lender to request them. A mortgage broker can provide a personalized checklist for your situation and review documents before submission, ensuring nothing is missing and preventing avoidable delays.
Need personalized advice?
Every situation is different. Speak with one of our mortgage brokers to discuss how these principles apply to your circumstances.
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