How many years of income history do I need?
Answered by Onias Derilus, Mortgage Capital · NMLS# 1859012 · Florida licensed mortgage broker
The standard is a two-year history, but it doesn't have to be the same employer — school, military, or a job change in the same field counts. W-2 earners often need only the most recent year fully documented.
Self-employed and commission borrowers generally need the full two years. Gaps just need a brief explanation. We'll confirm exactly what your profile requires.
How much history lenders want
Most loans want a two-year look at your income. Salaried jobs are simplest and can count almost right away. Variable pay like bonus and commission needs the full two years.
Gaps are not fatal. A short break for school or family gets a written explanation. Steady income after the gap is what matters.
Building a clean history in Florida
Your work story does not need to be perfect. It needs to be stable and explainable. We help you frame it for underwriting.
Bring two years of W-2s or returns. We will flag anything that needs a note and prepare it in advance.