Payslips: What Mortgage Lenders Need to See

When it comes to mortgage applications, payslips aren’t just about proving how much you earn. Lenders dive deeper, checking for consistency, accuracy, and signs of stability to ensure monthly mortgage payments can be managed. They want to see the bigger picture—not just the numbers. Let’s break down exactly what lenders will look for and how to make sure your payslips pass the underwriting checks.

What Information Needs to be on My Payslip for a Mortgage Application?

To avoid any delays with your mortgage application, your payslips should ideally display the following:

Your Full Name
This must match the name on your bank statements and ID. If you’ve recently changed your name, ensure all documents are updated.
Employer's Name and Address
Your Address
While not always necessary, if your address is shown, it should match the address on your application and bank statements.
Payment Period
Each payslip should specify the exact period it covers (e.g., 1st–31st October).
Gross and Net Pay
Lenders need to see both your total earnings before deductions (gross) and what you take home (net).
Tax and National Insurance Deductions
These show your income is correctly processed through PAYE.
Any Additional Income
Bonuses, overtime, or commission should be detailed and consistent with your employment terms.

how many payslips for mortgage application

How Many Payslips Do I Need for a Mortgage?

The standard requirement is the three most recent payslips. However, this can vary depending on the lender and your payment frequency. For instance, if you're paid weekly, you may need to provide up to twelve payslips.

Consistency with Bank Statements

Lenders will cross-reference your payslips with your bank statements to ensure your net pay matches what’s being deposited.

Common Issues to Avoid:

Payslip figures don't align with your bank statement income data
Payments made into a different account to the bank statements provided. If so, you will need to provide those statements too.
Multiple income streams but only one being declared on your mortgage application.

download payslip for mortgage application

Are Digital Payslips Accepted by Mortgage Lenders?

Yes, digital payslips are generally accepted, but make sure:

They are complete and not cropped or screenshot.

They show all the necessary details listed above.
They’re downloaded as PDFs directly from your employer’s payroll system.

self-employed payslips for mortgge application

What If I'm Self-Employed and Don't have Payslips?

If you're self-employed, traditional payslips may not be applicable. Instead, lenders will require documents such as SA302s and tax returns to verify your income. See our Guide to Tax Documents for more details.

Can you get a mortgage in the UK without payslips?

Can I Get a Mortgage Without Payslips?

Yes, it’s possible to get a mortgage without traditional payslips, but you’ll need to provide alternative proof of income. If you’re self-employed, lenders may accept bank statements, SA302 forms, or an accountant’s certificate. If you’ve just started a new job, some lenders will consider an employment contract or a letter from your employer confirming your salary and start date. Specialist lenders may also offer options for contractors and freelancers with irregular income.

Troubleshooting Tips

If there are discrepancies, like a name mismatch, provide a letter from your employer or additional proof of identity such as a marriage certificate.
Can’t find payslips? Contact your employer’s HR or payroll department for copies.

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THINK CAREFULLY BEFORE SECURING OTHER DEBTS AGAINST YOUR HOME.

YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE OR ANY OTHER DEBT SECURED ON IT.

IMPORTANT: With investments, your capital is at risk. Pensions and investments can go down in value as well as up, so you could get back less than you invest.

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