## How Much Employment History Do You Need for a Mortgage?
When you apply for a mortgage, the lender will want to see evidence of your employment history. This is to ensure that you have a stable job and that you are able to make your mortgage payments on time. The amount of employment history that you need will vary depending on the lender, but most will want to see at least two years of history.
**Acceptable Forms of Employment History**
* **Pay stubs**
* **W-2 forms**
* **Tax returns**
* **Letters from your employer**
**Self-Employed Individuals**
If you are self-employed, you will need to provide additional documentation to prove your income. This may include:
* **Business tax returns**
* **Profit and loss statements**
* **Bank statements**
**Gaps in Employment**
If you have any gaps in your employment history, you will need to explain them to the lender. The lender will want to know why you were not working and how you supported yourself during that time.
## What If I Don’t Have Enough Employment History?
If you do not have enough employment history, you may still be able to get a mortgage. However, you may need to provide additional documentation to prove your ability to make your mortgage payments. This may include:
* **Proof of assets**
* **Gifts from family or friends**
* **Letter of explanation from your employer**
## Special Considerations for First-Time Homebuyers**
First-time homebuyers may have less employment history than other borrowers. However, there are some special programs available that can help first-time homebuyers get a mortgage. These programs may have lower down payment requirements and more flexible credit guidelines.
## How to Improve Your Employment History**
If you need to improve your employment history, there are a few things you can do:
* **Get a part-time job.** This will show the lender that you are willing to work and that you have a reliable source of income.
* **Start a freelance business.** This can be a good way to show the lender that you have the skills and experience to earn a steady income.
* **Volunteer.** This shows the lender that you are a responsible person who is willing to contribute to your community.
## Conclusion
The amount of employment history that you need for a mortgage will vary depending on the lender. However, most lenders will want to see at least two years of history. If you do not have enough employment history, you may still be able to get a mortgage, but you may need to provide additional documentation to prove your ability to make your mortgage payments.