Self-Employed Mortgage With 1-Year Tax Returns | Qualify Today
Self-Employed 1-Year Tax Return Mortgage Options
A streamlined path for business owners, freelancers, and independent earners.
Self-employment gives you freedom—your mortgage should too. This program lets qualified borrowers use only one year of tax returns to secure financing. If your income fluctuates or has grown recently, this option helps you qualify without unnecessary roadblocks.
One Year of Tax Returns Is All You Need
Traditional lenders want two years of tax returns. This program looks at your most recent year, giving self-employed borrowers a fair shot at qualification and better access to financing.
Program Advantages
Flexible, realistic, and designed around how entrepreneurs actually earn:
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Minimum 620 FICO
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Non-occupant co-borrowers allowed
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No credit card closures required at closing
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Works for seasonal, fluctuating, or newly increased income
Eligible Loan Types
Qualify with one year of returns for:
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Purchase
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Rate-and-Term (Limited Cash-Out) Refinance
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Cash-Out Refinance
Highlights for Self-Employed Borrowers
Benefit-driven and designed to remove friction:
Yes… Only 1 year of tax returns required.
Yes… Freddie Open Access options available.
Yes… Non-occupant co-borrowers OK.
Yes… Cash-out available on high-balance loans down to 620 FICO.
Yes… No need to close credit cards.
Bonus Option: W-2 Transcript-Only Program
If you or your co-borrower has W-2 income, the transcript-only path requires even fewer documents—ideal for mixed-income households.
Ready to See What You Qualify For?
Take the next step with a lender who understands how business owners earn.
Get your custom quote in minutes—no commitment, no pressure.
Click below to start your self-employed loan review:
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FAQ for Self-Employed 1-Year Tax Return Loans
Can I really qualify for a mortgage with just one year of tax returns?
Yes. As long as your most recent year of self-employment income is stable and meets the lender’s guidelines, one year of returns is acceptable.
What’s the minimum credit score?
The program allows FICO scores as low as 620, including for high-balance and cash-out scenarios.
Can I use a non-occupant co-borrower?
Yes. A non-occupant co-borrower can be added to strengthen income, debt ratios, or overall qualifying.
Do I need to close my credit cards at closing?
No. This program does not require closing out credit card accounts, which keeps your credit history intact.
Is cash-out allowed with only one year of tax returns?
Yes. Cash-out refinancing is permitted, including on high-balance loans (with a 620+ FICO).
What income documents do I need?
Typical year of federal tax returns
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Business license (if required)
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P&L in some situations
Documentation is lighter than traditional full-doc loans.
Is this a Non-QM loan?
It can be either. Some lenders offer this through expanded conventional pathways (like Freddie), while others deliver it through Non-QM programs.
Does fluctuating income disqualify me?
Not necessarily. Underwriters look at the average or recent-year income, depending on the program. Many self-employed borrowers with variable income still qualify.