Do I need tax returns if I am a W-2 employee?
Often not for a simple W-2 file, but underwriters may still request them. Commission, bonus, or rental income can trigger returns.
Most FHA borrowers need government ID, Social Security number, recent paystubs, W-2s, bank statements, and details about debts and the property. Gift funds, self-employment, or credit events add paperwork — gathering docs early is the fastest path to clear to close.
Start here for a standard W-2 FHA purchase.
Driver's license or passport and Social Security number.
30 days of paystubs and typically two years of W-2s.
Two months of bank/asset statements with all pages.
Landlord contact or mortgage statements as applicable.
Purchase agreement, addenda, and earnest money proof once under contract.
A clear checklist beats a scavenger hunt.
Step 1
Based on income and transaction type.
Step 2
Send docs through our preferred channel — not random email threads.
Step 3
We catch missing pages before underwriting does.
Step 4
Only ask for what is still truly needed.
Related guides to help you compare options and move toward pre-approval.
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Often not for a simple W-2 file, but underwriters may still request them. Commission, bonus, or rental income can trigger returns.
Typically the most recent full two months. If statements age out during the process, we will ask for updates.
Clear scans or PDF downloads are better. If you use photos, make sure every corner and page is readable.
Before you shop seriously. Pre-approval is faster and stronger when income and assets are already verified.
Ryan & Steve will build a personalized checklist based on your income, gifts, and transaction type.