Does proof of funds have to be cash?

Asked by: Sonia Thompson  |  Last update: January 29, 2026
Score: 4.3/5 (38 votes)

It's important to note that in the majority of instances, the proof of funds must refer to liquid capital, primarily cash. Certain investments such as retirement accounts, mutual fund accounts, and life insurance do not qualify as proof of funds.

What is acceptable as proof of funds?

Proof of funds usually comes in the form of a bank security or custody statement. These can be procured from your bank or the financial institution that holds your money. Bank statements are the most common document to use as POF and can typically be found online or at a bank branch.

What is the best way to send proof of funds?

The best way to show proof of funds is by copying your bank statements, investments, etc and including them with your application. You can blank out and information that you feel is private, but in this instance it's best to keep account numbers, names. Dates, etc as they are relevant to your situation and application.

How to show proof of funds to buy a house with cash?

Cash buyers must provide proof of cash to the seller, such as a bank statement or a certified financial statement. The seller can then relax, knowing that the buyer has the required funds to complete the transaction.

Can proof of funds be stock?

Investments — including stocks, bonds, mutual funds, life insurance, or untapped equity — do not qualify to be included as proof of funds when you need to provide documentation for a mortgage.

How To Get A Proof of Funds Letter For Wholesaling (FREE!)

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What are the rules for proof of funds?

Proof of funds refers to a document that demonstrates the ability of an individual or entity to pay for a specific transaction. A bank statement, security statement, or custody statement usually qualify as proof of funds. Proof of funds is typically required for a large transaction, such as the purchase of a house.

Can I show stocks as proof of funds?

These funds could be in the form of: cash. documents that show property or capital payable to you (such as stocks, bonds, debentures, treasury bills, etc.) or. documents that guarantee payment of a set amount of money, which are payable to you (such as bankers' drafts, cheques, travelers' cheques or money orders.

How do you present proof of funds?

What Goes Into Writing A Proof Of Funds Letter?
  1. The bank's name and address.
  2. An official bank statement.
  3. Balance of total funds in your checking or savings account.
  4. Signature of an authorized bank employee or notary.
  5. The date the money was deposited in the account.

Can proof of funds be a screenshot?

It's called Proof of Funds and yes it's very common. I instruct my buyer clients to send a screenshot of a summary page of their account that includes their name but blacks out the account number and other sensitive information.

How long is proof of funds good for?

Proof of cash or funds letters don't have a hard expiration date, but they don't last forever. Their entire purpose is to verify how much money you have right now.

What is sufficient proof of funds?

What qualifies as a proof of funds letter? In some cases, printed bank statements and other account balances are adequate. In other situations, a formal letter from your financial institution that details the exact amount of available funds is required.

How long does proof of funds take?

If the funds are coming from multiple sources, proof for each source is required. The process can take several days to weeks, depending on the complexity of the buyer's financial situation.

What is a typical proof of funds letter?

Items that must be included in a Proof of Funds Letter include: Bank's name and address. Official bank statement. Copy of money market statement and balance.

How do agents verify proof of funds?

If you propose to finance the purchase the agent will want you to speak to a lender and if you have the necessary funds available to complete the transaction. This question is legal anywhere in the USA. The proof can be in the form of statements from banks or brokerages showing that you have the funds available.

Can I use a bank statement as proof of funds?

Proof of funds can be shown with: An agreement in principle/mortgage in principle. Bank statements of your deposit amount (for mortgage buyers) Bank statements of your cash amount (for cash buyers)

How do I verify proof of funds?

If proof of funds is presented as a letter, contact the author of the letter and ask them to verify the information they provided and ask any questions you may have. If proof of funds is presented via a bank statement, ask the buyer who you can contact at their bank to verify the statement is authentic.

Can I use my savings as proof of income?

This could include statements showing savings or investment accounts or documentation for other assets contributing to your financial security, such as real estate or vehicles. Including these documents can enhance your application by demonstrating overall financial health.

Why do realtors ask for proof of funds?

Proof of funds letters are also used in all-cash purchases of real estate. Realtors and sellers frequently ask for a proof of funds letter before they accept your offer. A proof of funds letter complements a mortgage prequalification. The letter demonstrates that you can afford the down payment and closing costs.

Does your realtor see your finances?

If you're concerned about detailing your finances to your real estate agent, rest assured that there's plenty of privacy in the client/agent relationship. Real estate agents don't need, or expect, you to disclose everything about your money.

How to verify source of funds?

If the transaction is higher risk, you may ask for supporting evidence, possibly in the form of:
  1. bank statements.
  2. recently filed business accounts, or.
  3. documents confirming the source, such as: sale of a house. sale of shares. receipt of a personal injuries award. a bequest under an estate. a win from gambling activities.

How do I show proof of funds in USA?

Evidence of financial ability includes but is not limited to:
  1. Family bank statements.
  2. Documentation from a sponsor.
  3. Financial aid letters.
  4. Scholarship letters.
  5. Letter from an employer showing annual salary.

How does a buyer show proof of funds?

Many mortgage lenders allow you to provide bank statements as proof of funds. In some cases, though, you might need a formal letter. You can request a proof of funds letter in person at your bank or online. Your lender might be able to fill out a request form on your behalf instead.

How do stock traders show proof of income?

Some ways to prove self-employment income include:
  1. Annual Tax Return (Form 1040) This is the most credible and straightforward way to demonstrate your income over the last year since it's an official legal document recognized by the IRS. ...
  2. 1099 Forms. ...
  3. Bank Statements. ...
  4. Profit/Loss Statements. ...
  5. Self-Employed Pay Stubs.