Can I buy a house if I am unemployed?

Asked by: Natalia Pagac  |  Last update: February 20, 2026
Score: 4.4/5 (63 votes)

Key Takeaways. You can buy a house without income, but you'll need to demonstrate strong finances or pay in cash. A solid credit history, including a high credit score, may increase your chances of buying a home without income. You can buy a cash home whether or not you have income.

Can I buy a home if I'm unemployed?

KEY TAKEAWAYS. Getting a mortgage without a job is possible, but you must still demonstrate your ability to repay the loan by providing the lender with proof of income. Securing a home loan without a job typically involves higher interest rates because the lender takes on more risk.

Can you buy a house if you're not working?

Can You Get A Home Loan Without A Job? Absolutely, yes. Retirees, divorced parties, and people with significant bank investments get loans every day. In fact, it's possible to get a mortgage without employment as long as lenders are able to determine that you can repay the loan.

How can I buy a house with no employment history?

If you have less than 2 years of work history, these factors can strengthen your application:
  1. Strong Credit Score: A high credit score can offset a shorter work history.
  2. Larger Down Payment: More skin in the game reduces lender risk.
  3. Significant Savings: Substantial reserves demonstrate financial responsibility.

Can I use unemployment income to qualify for a loan?

Lenders need to see that you have a consistent income to feel more secure that you'll make your payments, and make them on time. While unemployment benefits are a form of income, they typically expire after a certain period. As such, these benefits don't usually qualify as proof of consistent income.

CAN I GET A MORTGAGE IF I AM ON BENEFITS?!?

42 related questions found

Does unemployment affect buying a house?

Do unemployment benefits count as income for a mortgage? Lending guidelines only allow you to use unemployment benefits to qualify for a mortgage if you can provide proof that the income has been received for at least two years.

Can you use unemployment as proof of income?

Yes, renters can use unemployment documents as proof of income, but landlords should still ensure the potential tenant will be able to afford the monthly rent price and take note of when the benefits are set to expire.

How to buy property with no income?

If you're unable to take out a mortgage and buy a house with no income, consider these alternatives:
  1. Rent a place to live until you're better positioned to make a purchase.
  2. Get financing from the seller.
  3. Borrow money from friends or relatives.
  4. Look into crowdfunding a home purchase.

Do I need 2 years of employment to buy a house?

Conventional home loans are arguably the most popular type of mortgage. They generally require at least two years of employment history to qualify. However, less than two years may be acceptable if the borrower's profile demonstrates “positive factors” to compensate for shorter income history.

Can I get an FHA loan with no job?

The FHA recognizes various forms of income: Unemployment benefits: If you're receiving unemployment, this can be considered income. However, the lender must determine if this income is likely to continue. Self-employment income: If you're self-employed or a freelancer, you may still qualify.

How much proof of income do you need to buy a house?

Provide recent paycheck stubs, W-2s, and tax returns for the past two years. Income should remain steady over this period. To use variable income like commissions or bonuses, you'll need proof of consistency for at least two to three years.

Can you rent a house with no job?

Yes, it's possible to rent an apartment without a traditional job by providing alternative income proof, enlisting a co-signer or guarantor, or offering additional security deposits.

Can I get a loan without a job?

Getting a loan without a job isn't impossible, but it may be difficult, as lenders will probably view you as a risky borrower. If you lack a steady income, don't fret. Other sources of income can help you get a loan. Lenders may consider child support, unemployment and investment income.

Can you get a mortgage with assets but no income?

An asset-based SOFR loan is a valuable tool that can be used by high-net worth individuals to obtain funding for a new property purchase without having to show proof of income.

Can I get a mortgage with 50% down and no job?

Can you get a mortgage with no job, but a large deposit? Yes. “Having a large deposit can significantly improve your chances of getting a mortgage even without a job,” Bergeron says.

What credit score to buy a house?

Conventional loans typically require a minimum credit score of 620, though some may require a score of 660 or higher. These loans aren't insured by a government agency and conform to certain standards set by the government-sponsored entities Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

How much house can I afford with a 60k salary?

With a $60,000 annual salary, you could potentially afford a house priced between $180,000 and $250,000, depending on your financial situation, credit score, and current market conditions. However, this range can vary significantly based on several factors we'll discuss.

Can I buy a house if I don't have a job?

You can purchase a home or refinance if you're unemployed or not employed in the typical fashion, but expect to face some obstacles you otherwise wouldn't. Many lenders want to see proof of income to know that you're able to repay the loan.

How can I buy a house if I don't have enough money?

How to buy a house with low income
  • Maximize your credit score. Your credit score, or FICO ® Score, can range from 300 to 850. ...
  • Pay off your debt. ...
  • Establish a budget. ...
  • Save for a down payment. ...
  • Enlist the help of a co-signer. ...
  • Consider first-time homebuyer programs.

How to invest in real estate without a job?

Buy REITs (real estate investment trusts)

REITs tend to pay high dividends, making them a common retirement investment. Investors who don't need or want regular income can automatically reinvest those dividends to grow their investment further.

Can I buy a house if I was on unemployment?

With mortgage lenders typically wanting proof of employment and a steady income, you may wonder if you can count unemployment as income when refinancing or purchasing a home. Luckily, you CAN count unemployment as income for a mortgage.

How do I get proof that I am unemployed?

If you need to get proof of unemployment from your former employer, you can typically contact the human resources department directly. These professionals rarely need any materials from you. If you haven't left the job yet, you can ask for this letter in person by visiting their office.

Does unemployment affect a mortgage?

To qualify for a mortgage, you will need to provide proof of stable income, so depending on how long you were unemployed, you may have to wait until you've worked at your new job for at least six months. Most mortgage lenders will ask for the past two years' proof of employment through tax returns or pay stubs.

What happens if you buy a house and lose your job?

If you are furloughed from work, your lender may be able to continue with your loan, but must confirm your intention to return to work. If you return before the first mortgage payment, your usual income will be used. If not, your license revenue will be used.

Do you need proof of employment to buy a house?

Employment verification: Most mortgage applicants need to prove they're steadily employed. In the case of someone who's self-employed, this proof may be: State and business licenses you hold. Proof of client relationships.