Self Employed
Self-employed? Your income can still make sense to a lender
Understand self-employed mortgage options in Hampshire, including how lenders may assess accounts, dividends and different income streams.
What lenders look at
Useful options, explained simply.
- 01Sole trader income shown through your accounts and tax returns.
- 02Limited company director income, including salary and dividends.
- 03Dividends considered alongside the wider performance of the company.
- 04Multiple income streams explained clearly rather than ignored.
- 05Recent accounts used to show how your business is performing now.
- 06SA302s and tax year overviews used to support your application.
Common Questions
A few answers before you start.
How many years of accounts do I need?
Many lenders like to see two or three years, but some may consider less if the rest of the application is strong. The detail and trend in your income matter.
Can a limited company director use dividends?
Some lenders consider dividends, while others focus on salary and the company’s net profit. The right approach depends on how your company is structured and how your income is taken.
What are SA302s?
An SA302 shows the income you reported to HMRC for a tax year. Lenders may ask for SA302s and tax year overviews to verify self-employed income.
Can I use more than one income stream?
Often, yes. Salary, business income, contracting work and other regular income may all be relevant, as long as they can be evidenced and the lender accepts them.
What if my latest year is lower?
A recent change does not always end the conversation. We can look at why income changed, what the current position is and which lenders may understand the full picture.
Ready to take the first step?
Ready to make your income work harder?
A mortgage broker can give advice and recommendations based on your circumstances.