Bank Statement Loan
What Is a Bank Statement Loan?
A bank statement loan is a type of non-qualified mortgage (Non-QM) designed for self-employed borrowers, independent contractors, and small business owners who may not qualify using traditional income documentation like W-2s or tax returns. Instead, lenders use personal or business bank statements to calculate income and determine eligibility.
How It Works
- Borrowers provide 12–24 months of personal or business bank statements instead of tax returns.
- Lenders average deposits to determine qualifying income.
- Some programs allow expense ratios to be applied to business accounts, while personal statements often use total deposits.
- Verification of consistent income flow is key to approval.
Down Payment Requirements
- Typically requires a 10–20% down payment, depending on credit score and loan amount.
- Some lenders may allow higher loan-to-value (LTV) with stronger credit profiles.
Credit Score Requirements
- Minimum FICO score of 620–660, depending on lender.
- Higher credit scores (700+) generally allow for lower down payments and better rates.
- Some lenders may apply overlays, such as requiring higher reserves or stricter DTI limits
Fun Facts & Insider Details
- Both personal and business bank statements may be used, depending on the program.
- Expense ratios (often 50%) are applied to business statements unless verified by a CPA.
- Some programs allow 1099 income to be considered similarly to bank statement programs.
Who Is the Best Candidates for a Bank Statement Loan?
- Self-employed borrowers with significant write-offs on tax returns.
- Independent contractors and freelancers paid via deposits instead of payroll.
- Small business owners with consistent cash flow but lower reported taxable income.
- Buyers who may not qualify under conventional or FHA guidelines but have strong income shown in bank deposits.
Important Things to Know
- These are considered Non-QM loans, meaning they don’t meet standard Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac guidelines.
- Interest rates are generally higher than traditional loans, but flexibility makes them attractive for self-employed clients.
- Borrowers must show stable deposits and may need to document business ownership with licenses or CPA letters.
- Loan amounts can be high, with many lenders offering jumbo bank statement loans.
- Reserve requirements may apply (often 6–12 months of mortgage payments in savings).
FAQs – Standard 97% LTV Loan
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Is this the same as HomeReady or Home Possible?
No. While they also allow 3% down, HomeReady and Home Possible have income and area restrictions. The Standard 97% loan is broader but requires at least one borrower to be a first-time buyer.
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Can I use this program for a multi-unit property?
No. This program is limited to 1-unit primary residences.
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Do I have to take a homeownership education course?
Possibly. If all borrowers are first-time buyers, at least one will need to complete an approved education course.
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Is PMI permanent?
No. PMI can be removed once you reach 20% equity.
Next Step
If you are self-employed or an independent contractor and have struggled to qualify for a traditional loan, a bank statement loan may be the right solution. Contact Torres & Co. Lending today to review your bank statements and begin the pre-approval process.
- Llámenos: 305-440-1507
- Correo electrónico: info@torresnc.com
⚖️ Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only. Loan approval and terms depend on credit, income, assets, property type, and program guidelines.