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How Many Years Of Tax Returns For Mortgage?

Taxes are an essential part of any real estate transaction. And mortgages are no different. That’s why it’s best to have a history of successful tax returns to increase the chances of accepting the mortgage application. So how many years of tax returns do you need for a mortgage?

When filing a mortgage application, you will need two years of successive tax returns. This gives your lender the notion that you can pay your taxes and pay them on time. By doing this, you’ll increase the chances of getting your mortgage loan accepted.

In this article, we’ll give you information on how to file your tax return successfully. This will help reduce stress and increase your credibility in the eyes of a lender. By the end, you’ll have enough information to utilize your tax returns fully. 

How Many Years Of Tax Returns For Mortgage

As we’ve stated previously, you’ll need at least two years of tax returns to get your mortgage application approved. The tax documents will give your lenders information about your multiple sources of income and how much you can be eligible for the application. 

However, non-recurring income such as lottery winnings or a boat sale won’t count because it’s a one-time transaction. This makes it difficult for lenders to determine if you have the cash flow to pay off the mortgage. 

That means you’re going to have to prepare your tax returns for your mortgage. Deductions can reduce your income for loan purposes. However, deductions for depreciation expenses won’t lessen your borrowing ability. 

While taking multiple deductions will appear good on taxes, you still might not get approved. 

Your income type will determine how the lenders view your application. Here are three different ways your income is calculated:

  • Sole Proprietor: A sole proprietor is a business that one person runs. There is no distinction between the business entities. They are entitled to all the profits but take full ownership of the losses as well. 
  • Corporation: A corporation is a specific entity separate from the owners. They have limited liability, meaning that the shareholders aren’t responsible for the debts. 
  • Partnership: A partnership is when two business partners work on a common goal. In this case, both partners are responsible for the debts and profit from their business. 

Depending on the size of your business and how it operates, choose from one of the three. This will give you more accuracy during the tax filing process and increase the chances of getting tax returns. 

Once you’ve received your tax information from your employer or IRS, take the time to file the mortgage application. That way, you can determine which lenders are willing to work with you and your financial situation. 

So How Do You Prepare For a Tax Return? 

First, you can prepare for a tax return if you’ve surpassed a specific income level throughout a year. If you’re currently employed, check your paystub’s “year to date” income. 

If you’re working multiple jobs, make sure to gather the income from all employers. At this stage, you can include other income sources such as rental properties, interest, investments, or anything you’ve sold throughout the year. 

Next, you’ll want to stay organized with your tax paperwork. Doing so will help with filing during tax season. Make sure to keep receipts of medical bills, business/work expenses, and charitable donations. 

Also, keep your statements from student loans, fellowships, grants, or investments. This will help you find out what to itemize and make the filing process easier. 

Always keep your paperwork with you after filling out your tax return. Based on the IRS, you should keep paperwork for up to three years. That way, you can have evidence that you’ve filed your taxes if you get audited. 

You’ll receive income forms from your employer in January or February. You won’t be able to file your tax return unless you have a W-2 or 1099 form. That information will be used to fill out the Form 1040 that the IRS presents. 

Keep in mind the tax return deadline on April 15. This gives you at least two months to prepare your files and file for the upcoming tax season. As a rule of thumb, it’s best to file for taxes sooner than later. 

Doing so protects you from financial penalties or tax identity theft. In addition, if you are eligible for a tax refund, you’ll earn it sooner.

Benefits of Early Mortgage Tax Return Filing 

When getting out a tax return, there are numerous reasons why you should start early. Here are some reasons why. 

Access To Tax Professionals

When trying to get your tax returns for a mortgage, you have to be quick. The earlier you do it, the faster you’ll have access to a tax professional that can get them filed immediately. 

In addition, some tax professionals will charge more to file taxes as the deadline becomes closer. To avoid this, speak to your advisor. 

If you have simple taxes, then you should use a calculator. However, those who have more complex taxes should seek the assistance of a professional. 

Mortgage Loan Approval

The faster you file your taxes, the easier it is to get your mortgage loan approved. That’s because you’ve provided information to the lender about your previous tax history. 

If you were to send them information later, chances are they’ll reject the application. Because of this, it’s best to file your taxes early to improve your chances of getting a successful mortgage loan on your property. 

Reduces Tax Income Stress

When filing your taxes completely, you’ll reduce stress in the long run. The best way to do this is to create a fake deadline days before the actual tax filing date. 

Doing this will ensure that you have a stress-free filing process. After receiving your return, you can send it to mortgage lenders. That way, you’ll reduce stress while getting you closer to your first home. 

Conclusion

To conclude, make sure you have at least two years of tax returns ready before applying for a mortgage. This will help lenders know that you’re a serious borrower and increase your chances of getting the loan. So file for your taxes as soon as you can!