What Documents Do I Need to Apply for a Mortgage?

Dec 19, 2025
2 min read

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Applying for a mortgage can feel overwhelming, especially when lenders start asking for documents. Knowing what is required in advance can make the process far smoother and reduce delays or stress.

While exact requirements vary between lenders and individual circumstances, most mortgage applications in the UK follow a similar structure. Below is a clear guide to the documents you are likely to need and why lenders ask for them.

Proof of income

Proof of income is one of the most important parts of a mortgage application. The documents needed depend on how you are paid.

If you are employed, lenders usually ask for your most recent payslips, often covering the last three months. Some may ask for six months if your income includes overtime, bonuses, or shift allowances. A recent P60 is also commonly requested.

If you are self-employed, documents typically include your last two years of accounts or SA302s with corresponding tax year overviews. Some lenders may accept one year, but this depends on the lender and the stability of the income.

For contractors or limited company directors, lenders may ask for a combination of payslips, dividends, company accounts, or contracts, depending on how income is structured.

Bank statements

Most lenders require recent bank statements to assess how your income is received and how you manage your finances. This is usually the last three months, although some lenders request six.

Bank statements help lenders confirm salary payments, identify regular commitments, and check for signs of financial stress. It is important that these statements match the income declared on the application.

Details of existing credit commitments

You will need to disclose any existing loans, credit cards, car finance, or other regular financial commitments. Lenders will use this information to assess affordability.

In some cases, lenders may also ask for statements showing balances or monthly payments. Being upfront about commitments avoids issues later in the process.

Proof of deposit

Lenders must verify where your deposit is coming from. This is to comply with money laundering regulations and ensure the funds are acceptable.

If the deposit is from savings, bank statements showing how the funds have built up are usually sufficient. If the deposit is a gift from family, a gift deposit letter is normally required, and the donor may need to provide identification and proof of funds.

For more complex deposits, such asthe sale of property or overseas funds, additional documentation may be needed.

Property-related documents

Once you have found a property, lenders may ask for details such as the memorandum of sale or information about the property type. For new build homes, shared ownership, or buy-to-let properties, additional documentation is often required.

Your solicitor will also provide legal documents separately during the conveyancing process.

Why getting the documents right matters

Incomplete or inconsistent documentation is one of the most common reasons mortgage applications are delayed or declined. Providing the right documents at the start allows your adviser to match you with suitable lenders and submit a stronger application.

A professional mortgage adviser will tell you exactly what is required for your situation and review documents before submission, reducing the risk of problems later.