Having clean, complete documents is the single biggest way to speed up your loan.
This library lists the documents typically needed for common California mortgage scenarios: buying a home, refinancing, self-employed borrowers, VA loans, and using gift funds. Use the list that matches your situation, and provide clean, complete copies to speed up approval.
General (Almost Everyone)
Scenario: Buying a Home
In addition to the general list:
- Proof of down payment funds and their source.
- A gift letter and transfer proof, if using gift money. See Gift Funds Rules.
- The purchase contract, once you are in escrow.
- Proof of homeowners insurance before closing.
Scenario: Refinancing
In addition to the general list:
- Your current mortgage statement.
- Your homeowners insurance declaration page.
- Recent property tax information.
- For cash-out, details on the purpose if asked. See Refinance Checklist.
Scenario: Self-Employed or 1099
- Last 2 years of personal (and often business) tax returns.
- A year-to-date profit and loss statement, if requested.
- Business bank statements.
- For a bank statement loan: 12–24 months of statements instead of returns. See Self-Employed - 1099.
Scenario: VA Loan
In addition to the general list:
- Certificate of Eligibility (COE).
- Military service documents, if requested.
- See VA.
Scenario: Other Income
Provide documentation for any income you want counted, such as:
- Social Security or pension award letters.
- Child support or alimony records (if used).
- Rental income documents.
How to Use This Library
- 1Find your scenario above.
- 2Gather the general list plus your scenario's extras.
- 3Make clean, complete copies (all pages).
- 4Provide them upfront for a stronger pre-approval. See Get Pre-Approved.
- 5Refresh if needed for a long process.
Requirements (At a Glance)
| Scenario | Key extras |
|---|---|
| Buying | Down payment proof, contract, insurance |
| Refinancing | Mortgage statement, insurance, taxes |
| Self-employed | Tax returns or bank statements |
| VA | Certificate of Eligibility |
| Gift funds | Gift letter and transfer proof |
Tips for Clean Documents
EZ Online Mortgage can give you a personalized document list so you are ready from day one.
This page is for education only. It is not a loan offer or a promise of approval, rates, or terms. Document needs vary by loan and lender, and depend on your individual circumstances. Equal Housing Opportunity · NMLS #362311 · CA DRE #01871814.
