Yes, it is possible to get a mortgage without two years of work history.
Lenders generally like to see at least two years of steady employment. It gives them confidence that your income is reliable enough to support a mortgage. But if you’re new to your field, recently graduated, or self-employed, there are still paths to homeownership.
In this Redfin article, we’ll walk through what lenders look for— whether you live in Portland, OR, San Diego, CA, or anywhere in between. We’ll outline how you can make your case without the typical job history and which loans might be a better fit.
Why job history matters to lenders
Your work history helps mortgage lenders answer one key question: Can you afford this loan long-term? They want to be confident that you have a reliable source of income to make your monthly payments—not just now, but for years to come.
Two years is the standard because:
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- It shows consistent income – lenders want proof that your earnings aren’t a short-term fluke. A two-year history helps show that your income is steady, not based on temporary gigs, one-time bonuses, or recent job changes.
- It gives them enough data to evaluate risk – Two years of employment gives lenders a track record to work with. They can see how stable your job is, how your income has grown (or not), and whether you’re likely to continue earning at the same level.
- It helps underwriters spot any financial red flags – gaps in employment, frequent job-hopping, or sudden career changes can raise concerns. A solid job history helps underwriters feel more confident that you’re a lower-risk borrower who’s less likely to miss payments down the road.
But don’t worry, if you just started a new job, recently graduated, or are self-employed, you still have options.
How to get a mortgage if you don’t have two years of work history
Here’s how to strengthen your application if you haven’t hit the two-year mark yet:
Exceptions to the Two-Year Rule
You may still be eligible for a mortgage if you fall into one of the following categories:
1. New job? a job letter can help
If you just landed a full-time, salaried position, especially in your field, lenders may accept a signed offer letter in place of a full employment history.
Example: Let’s say you just finished nursing school and started working as an RN. Some lenders will treat your education and new role as a sign of income stability.
2. Recent grad? your education can count
If your job is related to your degree or training, lenders may count school as part of your employment timeline. Be ready to share:
- Transcripts or proof of enrollment
- Your degree or certification
- A job offer or employment contract
3. Self-employed? you’ll need solid records
Self-employed borrowers usually need to show two years of tax returns, but exceptions exist. If you’ve been freelancing in the same field or have strong documentation, one year may be enough.
You’ll want to prepare:
- Bank statements
- Invoices or contracts
- Profit & loss reports
- Year-to-date income summaries
4. Military veteran?
Veterans may be eligible for VA loans, which offer more flexible income and employment requirements. Service history can sometimes substitute for traditional work history.
5. Re-entering the workforce?
If you’re returning after a break—for caregiving, education, or other reasons—lenders may consider your previous experience and current job offer.
6. Have a seasonal job?
Those with seasonal employment may still qualify if they’ve worked consistently in the same field. Documentation showing income over multiple seasons can help.
7. Add a co-borrower
A co-borrower with a more traditional employment history, like a spouse or parent—can strengthen your application. Their income and credit score help reduce the lender’s risk.
How to Strengthen Your Mortgage Application
If you’re applying without two full years of employment, these strategies can improve your chances:
8. Consider government-backed loans
FHA, VA, and USDA loans often have more lenient employment requirements than conventional loans.
9. Accept less-favorable terms
If you’re comfortable with a higher interest rate or private mortgage insurance (PMI), some lenders may be more flexible.
10. Make a larger down payment
A bigger down payment reduces the lender’s risk, which may make them more willing to work with you.
11. Highlight other strengths
If your work history is thin, strong performance in other areas can help you qualify. These include:
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- A high credit score (700+) – This shows lenders that you’re responsible with credit and likely to make on-time payments.
- A low debt-to-income ratio – Keeping your monthly debt payments low compared to your income reassures lenders that you can handle a mortgage payment.
- A large down payment – Putting more money down upfront lowers the lender’s risk and can make them more comfortable approving your loan, even if your work history is limited.
- Significant savings or reserves – Having cash reserves or a healthy savings account shows you can cover your mortgage even during unexpected financial setbacks.
- Other income or investments – Additional income sources (like freelance work, rental income, or dividends) or valuable investments can help strengthen your application.
Best loan options for limited work history
FHA loans
These loans are often a go-to for first-time buyers. They allow more flexibility around employment, especially if you’re transitioning from school or starting a new job.
VA loans
If you’re eligible, VA loans are another option with less rigid employment requirements and no down payment needed.
>> Read: VA loans: Benefits, eligibility requirements and more
Non-QM loans
Non-qualified mortgages are designed for people with non-traditional financial situations, like gig workers, entrepreneurs, or contractors. They’re more flexible but often come with higher interest rates.
Challenges you may face
When applying with limited work history, be prepared for more questions from lenders. You might be asked to show additional documentation like proof of consistent freelance income, contracts, or a job offer letter. Lenders may also be more cautious, which could result in higher rates or stricter terms. Understanding these potential hurdles early can help you plan ahead and avoid surprises.
How to prepare your application
To strengthen your application, gather as much financial documentation as possible. This could include recent bank statements, tax returns, letters from clients or employers, and any proof of upcoming income. If you’re recently out of school, transcripts or proof of graduation can help explain your work history gap. You might also consider applying with a co-borrower who has a steady income, or increasing your down payment to show financial stability.
Final thoughts
Having less than two years of work history doesn’t automatically disqualify you from getting a mortgage. The key is showing lenders that your income is reliable, even if it doesn’t come from a long-term W‑2 job. Whether it’s a job offer, your educational background, or a co-borrower with solid income, you have more options than you might think.
Connect with a lender or mortgage broker who understands these scenarios, some are far more flexible than others. The right partner can make all the difference.
FAQs
Can you get a mortgage if you change jobs during the application process?
Yes, you can still get a mortgage if you change jobs, especially if you have a job offer letter or are moving into the same field, which lenders may accept in place of a full work history.
How do lenders verify employment?
Lenders typically verify employment through pay stubs, tax returns, job offer letters, and sometimes by contacting your employer directly.
How do lenders evaluate an employment gap?
Lenders look for explanations like returning to school, caregiving, or re-entering the workforce, and they may consider prior work history along with a current job offer.
Does part-time work count towards work history?
Part-time work can count if it shows steady and reliable income, but lenders generally prefer full-time, consistent employment.
How much income do you need for a mortgage?
Income requirements vary by loan and lender, but you generally need enough to comfortably cover monthly mortgage payments along with your other debts.
How many months of income do I need to qualify for a conventional mortgage loan?
Typically, lenders prefer at least two years of consistent income, but exceptions exist if you can provide strong documentation like job offers or tax returns.