Documents you need to refinance

A refinance is a new loan. Even though you already have a mortgage, the lender has to check that you can repay the new one today. Documents let the underwriter confirm your income, savings, debts, identity and the home itself.

Usually, you'll be asked for:

• Pay stubs from the last 30 days
• W-2s for the last two years
• Tax returns, if you're self-employed or have other income
• Proof of other income you want counted, like Social Security, a pension or alimony
• Leases, if you have rental income

Bank and asset statements for the last two months, with all pages. Include checking, savings and investment accounts you want counted. If a large deposit doesn't come from your pay, be ready to explain where it came from.

These help confirm what you owe and how the home is covered.

• Your most recent mortgage statement
• Statements for any second mortgage or home equity line
• Your homeowners insurance declarations page and agent contact
• HOA contact details and dues, if you have an HOA
• Your most recent property tax bill, if your taxes aren't escrowed

• A government-issued photo ID
• A divorce decree or separation agreement, if it affects your income, debts or ownership
• Information about any bankruptcy or foreclosure, if it applies

Expect to share personal tax returns, and business returns if you own a business entity. You may also be asked for a year-to-date profit and loss statement or business bank statements. The exact list depends on how your business is set up and the loan program.

• Send complete statements, with all pages, even blank ones.
• Use the files from your bank or employer, not screenshots, when you can.
• Avoid opening new credit or moving large sums until your loan closes.
• Respond quickly to follow-up requests. Underwriters often ask for one or two more items.
• Send documents only through the secure method your loan consultant gives you, never by replying to an unexpected email.