Showing posts with label employment gaps. Show all posts
Showing posts with label employment gaps. Show all posts

Job Gaps in Employment and Getting Approved for a Mortgage Loan in Kentucky for FHA and Fannie Mae Conventional loans


Gaps in Employment and getting approved for a KY FHA and Conventional Mortgage Loan


  • A borrower who has no verifiable employment for 6 months or longer is deemed to have a gap in employment. 
  • Fannie:  Fannie does not address gaps in employment in their guidelines.  We must ensure that DU’s income documentation can be met.  This will typically require the borrower’s most recent paystub and a W-2 from the most recent year. 
  • FHA:  borrower must be employed at their current job for 6 months or more at the time of case number assignment and a 2 year work history prior to the gap can be documented.


Can income from employment that has not begun be considered effective income?


Expected income refers to income from cost-of-living adjustments, performance raises, a new job, or retirement that has not been, but will be received within 60 days of mortgage closing.  The Mortgagee must verify and document the existence and amount of expected income with the employer in writing and that it is guaranteed to begin within 60 days of mortgage closing.  Income is calculated in accordance with the standards for the type of income being received. The Mortgagee must also verify that the borrower will have sufficient income or cash reserves to support the mortgage payment and any other obligations between mortgage closing and the beginning of the receipt of the income.  

For additional information see Handbook 4000.1 II.A.4.c.xii.(L) or II.A.5.b.xii.(L) available at https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/administration/hudclips/handbooks/hsgh




How does FHA view borrowers who change jobs frequently?



If the borrower has changed jobs more than three times in the previous 12-month period, or has changed lines of work, the Mortgagee must take additional steps to verify and document the stability of the borrower’s employment income.
The Mortgagee must obtain:
• transcripts of training and education demonstrating qualification for a new position; or
• employment documentation evidencing continual increases in income and/or benefits. 

For additional information see Handbook 4000.1 II.A.4.c.xi.(A) or II.A.5.b.xi.(A) available at https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/administration/hudclips/handbooks/hsgh







How does FHA view borrowers who change jobs frequently?


If the borrower has changed jobs more than three times in the previous 12-month period, or has changed lines of work, the Mortgagee must take additional steps to verify and document the stability of the borrower’s employment income.
The Mortgagee must obtain:
• transcripts of training and education demonstrating qualification for a new position; or
• employment documentation evidencing continual increases in income and/or benefits. 

For additional information see Handbook 4000.1 II.A.4.c.xi.(A) or II.A.5.b.xi.(A) available at https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/administration/hudclips/handbooks/hsgh



Job Gaps in Employment and Getting Approved for a Mortgage Loan in Kentucky for FHA and Fannie Mae Conventional loans




Joel Lobb  Mortgage Loan Officer

1 - 📅 Email - kentuckyloan@gmail.com 
2.  📞 Call/Text - 502-905-3708



Job Requirements and Employment History for a Kentucky VA loan Approval.




Kentucky VA Mortgage Loan Approval Requirements for Job and Employment History


Mortgage Employment or Job History Requirements for a VA Loan Approval in Kentucky 



Gaps in Employment
  • A borrower who has no verifiable employment for 6 months or longer is deemed to have a gap in employment.  
  • VA:  VA does not address gaps in employment and generally does not consider non military employment less than 12 months as stable and reliable. Any exceptions based on the loan as a whole is underwriter discretion.

Medical or Temporary Leave Income
  • The borrower has taken a temporary leave of absence from work typically for medical leave such as maternity, illness, surgery, or on the job injury.  This leave is short term in nature and the borrower is still employed with their same employer prior to the leave of absence.  
  •  VA: Borrower’s on temporary leave are not eligible for a loan transaction.   

Frequent Job Changes
  • Frequent job changes may indicate instability in a borrower’s income. 
  • VA: the borrower must demonstrate the ability to maintain an income at a constant level over the recent 2-year period even if he or she has worked for a variety of employers.

Seasonal Employment
  • Seasonal Employment refers to employment that is not year round typically due to weather conditions.  Seasonal Employment can be full time or part time. 
  •  VA:  Borrower must have worked the same job (or same line of seasonal work) for the past 2 years and the borrower’s employer must state there is a reasonable expectation that the borrower will be rehired for the next season.  Tax returns will be required if unemployment compensation will be used to qualify the borrower. 

*Income calculation will follow calculation guidelines.  These guidelines are for employment history and profile only.





Have Questions or Need Expert Advice? Text, email, or call me below:




Joel Lobb
Mortgage Loan Officer

Individual NMLS ID #57916





email:
 kentuckyloan@gmail.com

Text/call: 502-905-3708


employment gaps,job time VA loan,future employment,income VA Mortgage Loan,VA Mortgage Employment Guide,employment gaps,




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Why Kentucky Mortgage Loans Are Denied


When applying for a Kentucky mortgage loan, several factors play a crucial role in the approval and denial process. 

Understanding why Kentucky mortgage loans may not get approved due to credit score, bankruptcy, income ratio, work history, and foreclosure is essential for prospective homebuyers. 





Credit Score of 620 or below:

A credit score reflects an individual's creditworthiness. Lenders use this score to assess the risk of lending money. A lower credit score, typically below 620, can raise concerns for lenders. It may indicate past financial challenges, missed payments, or high levels of debt. To improve mortgage approval chances, borrowers should aim for a higher credit score by paying bills on time, reducing debt, and fixing any errors on their credit report.

Credit scores Kentucky Mortgage Loan




Bankruptcy less than 2 years or foreclosure less than 3 years:


Bankruptcy can significantly impact mortgage approval. Depending on the type of bankruptcy (Chapter 7 or Chapter 13) and how long ago it occurred, lenders may view it as a red flag. 

Bankruptcies stay on credit reports for 10 years, affecting credit scores and indicating financial instability. Lenders may require a waiting period after bankruptcy before considering a mortgage application.
 
Chapter 7

If you have filed a Chapter 7  Bankruptcy, the mortgage waiting periods begin after the discharge date:

Fannie Mae (conventional) loan – 4 years from discharge date
FHA loan – 2 years from discharge date
VA loan – 2 years from discharge date
USDA loan – 3 years from discharge date

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

On the other hand, if you have filed a Chapter 13 Bankruptcy, the mortgage waiting periods are shorter:

Fannie Mae (conventional) loan – 2 years from discharge date, and also 4 years from the dismissal date.
FHA loan – 1 year from the payout period. However, you also need court permission, and proof of satisfactory bankruptcy payment and performance.
VA loan – 1 year from the payout period. Also, court permission, and proof of satisfactory bankruptcy payment and performance.
USDA loan – 1 year of the payout must elapse and payment performance must be satisfactory. In addition, you need court permission to borrow again.

After Short Sale/Deed-in-Lieu of Foreclosure

The mortgage waiting periods after a short sale begin after the completion date:Fannie Mae (conventional) loan – 4 years
FHA loan – 3 years
VA loan – 2 years
USDA loan – 3 years



Debt to Income Ratio over 50% 

Lenders assess income ratios to determine if borrowers can afford mortgage payments. The debt-to-income ratio (DTI) compares monthly debt payments to gross monthly income. A high DTI suggests financial strain and may lead to loan denial. Lenders typically prefer a DTI below 50% for conventional loans. Increasing income or reducing debt can help improve this ratio and enhance loan approval chances.


Work History less than 2 years with job gaps: 

2 year Stable employment and consistent income are vital for mortgage approval. Lenders evaluate work history to ensure borrowers have a reliable source of income to repay the loan. Job changes, gaps in employment, or irregular income can raise concerns. Ideally, borrowers should demonstrate a steady work history with consistent or increasing income over time.











Joel Lobb Mortgage Loan Officer

Text/call: 502-905-3708

email: kentuckyloan@gmail.com


http://www.mylouisvillekentuckymortgage.com/








The view and opinions stated on this website belong solely to the authors, and are intended for informational purposes only. The posted information does not guarantee approval, nor does it comprise full underwriting guidelines. This does not represent being part of a government agency. The views expressed on this post are mine and do not necessarily reflect the view of my employer. Not all products or services mentioned on this site may fit all people.
NMLS ID# 57916, (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).





Kentucky first-time homebuyers with a focus on FHA, VA, USDA Home loans in Kentucky



Here's a summary of different loan programs for Kentucky first-time homebuyers with a focus on
FHA, VA, USDA Home loans in Kentucky  




FHA Loan:


Credit Score: Typically requires a minimum credit score of 580; borrowers with lower scores may still qualify but may need a larger down payment.
Down Payment: Minimum down payment of 3.5%.
Income Ratio: Front-end ratio (housing expenses to income) should not exceed 31%; back-end ratio (total debt to income) should not exceed 43%.
Work History: Generally requires at least two years of steady employment, though exceptions can be made.
Credit, Bankruptcy, and Foreclosure: More forgiving than conventional loans; may consider borrowers with past bankruptcy or foreclosure.
Employment and Work History: Stable employment and income are essential.
Time to Close: Typically around 30-45 days. Appraisal and property requirements follow FHA guidelines.


VA Loan:


Credit Score:VA doesn't set a minimum score; lenders may have their requirements, often around 620 or higher.
Down Payment: No down payment required for most borrowers.
Income Ratio: Flexible debt-to-income ratios, often up to 41% or higher in certain cases.
Work History: Stable employment history is preferred.
Credit, Bankruptcy, and Foreclosure: More lenient on past credit issues; may consider borrowers with past bankruptcy or foreclosure.
Employment and Work History: Consistent income from stable employment is crucial.
Time to Close: VA loans can take 45-60 days to close. Appraisal and property requirements must meet VA standards.


USDA Loan:


Credit Score: Typically requires a minimum credit score of 640; exceptions may be possible with compensating factors.
Down Payment: No down payment required for eligible borrowers.
Income Ratio: Maximum debt-to-income ratio of 41%, though exceptions may be made with strong compensating factors.
Work History: Stable employment history is preferred, typically two years or more.
Credit, Bankruptcy, and Foreclosure: Consideration for borrowers with past credit issues, bankruptcy, or foreclosure.
Employment and Work History: Consistent income from stable employment is important.
Time to Close: USDA loans may take 30-60 days to close. Appraisal and property requirements must meet USDA guidelines.

Each loan program has specific eligibility criteria and requirements, so it's essential for first-time homebuyers to consult with lenders or mortgage experts to determine the best fit based on their financial situation and goals.



 Appraisal requirements and income documentation

 


FHA Loan:Appraisal Requirements:

The property must meet FHA guidelines, including minimum property standards and safety requirements. An FHA-approved appraiser assesses the property's value and condition.
Income Documentation: Generally requires recent pay stubs, W-2 forms, tax returns for the past two years, and proof of additional income sources (if applicable).


VA Loan:Appraisal Requirements:

 VA loans require a VA appraisal conducted by a VA-assigned appraiser. The appraisal assesses the property's value and ensures it meets VA's Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs).
Income Documentation: Typically includes pay stubs, W-2 forms, tax returns for the past two years, and proof of any additional income (e.g., bonuses, alimony, rental income).

USDA Loan:Appraisal Requirements:

USDA loans require a USDA appraisal to determine the property's value and ensure it meets USDA's standards for safety and livability.

Income Documentation: 


Similar to FHA and VA loans, USDA loans require pay stubs, W-2 forms, tax returns for the past two years, and documentation of other income sources.

These appraisal requirements and income documentation are crucial parts of the loan application process. Lenders use this information to assess the property's value, ensure it meets safety standards, and verify the borrower's income stability and ability to repay the loan.



here's a summary of different loan programs for kentucky first-time homebuyers with a focus on fha, va, usda home loans in kentucky











Hope your day is full of sunshine😊

Joel Lobb  Mortgage Loan Officer

American Mortgage Solutions, Inc.
10602 Timberwood Circle
Louisville, KY 40223
Company NMLS ID #1364

Text/call: 502-905-3708
fax: 502-327-9119
email:
 kentuckyloan@gmail.com

http://www.mylouisvillekentuckymortgage.com/


NMLS 57916  | Company NMLS #1364/MB73346135166/MBR1574


The view and opinions stated on this website belong solely to the authors, and are intended for informational purposes only. The posted information does not guarantee approval
nor does it comprise full underwriting guidelines. This does not represent being part of a government agency. The views expressed on this post are mine and do not necessarily reflect the view of my employer. Not all products or services mentioned on this site may fit all people.
NMLS ID# 57916, (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

Kentucky VA Home Loan Guidelines for Employment


Analysis of Prospects for Continued Employment for a Kentucky VA Mortgage Loan


Cases involving recently discharged Kentucky Veterans often require the underwriter to exercise a great deal of judgment and flexibility in determining whether the employment income will continue in the foreseeable future. This is because some Veterans may have little or no employment experience other than their military occupation.

Continuity of employment is essential for a Kentucky Veteran with no retirement income, or insufficient retirement income, to support the loan obligation. If the duties the borrower performed in the military are similar or directly related to the duties of the present position, use this as one indicator that the employment is likely to continue.

Most cases fall somewhere between these extremes. Fully develop the facts of each case to make a determination


Borrowers Employed for Less than 12 Months for a Kentucky Mortgage Loan


Generally, employment less than 12 months is not considered stable and reliable. However, the lender may consider the employment stable and reliable if the facts and documentation warrant such a conclusion. Determine whether the borrower's past employment, training, and/or education equipped him or her with particular skills that relate directly to the duties of their current position. If the probability of continued employment is high based on these factors, then the lender may consider including the income in the total effective income. 


An explanation of why income of less than 12 months duration was used must be documented on the VA 26-6393, Loan Analysis. If the probability of continued employment is good, but not well supported, the lender may utilize the income if the borrower has been employed at 12 months, to partially offset debts of 6 to 24 months duration.

 An explanation of why income was used to offset debts must be documented on the VA 26-6393, Loan Analysis. A borrower may have a valid offer of employment which will begin at or after the anticipated date of closing which can be verified. All data pertinent to underwriting procedures should be considered. However, a paystub(s) may not be available.

--






Joel Lobb
Mortgage Loan Officer
Individual NMLS ID #57916






Text/call: 502-905-3708

The view and opinions stated on this website belong solely to the authors, and are intended for informational purposes only. The posted information does not guarantee approvalnor does it comprise full underwriting guidelines. This does not represent being part of a government agency. The views expressed on this post are mine and do not necessarily reflect the view of my employer. Not all products or services mentioned on this site may fit all people.
NMLS ID# 57916, (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

Kentucky FHA Loans Are Offering New Flexibilities for Borrowers Previously Affected by Covid-19


FHA Offering New Flexibilities for Borrowers Previously Affected by Covid-19

FHA has announced that the guidelines are being updated when calculating effective income after a reduction or loss of income for borrowers affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. These changes are effective for all case numbers on or after 09/05/2022, but may be implemented immediately.


ML 2022-09 reflects policies that will be incorporated into the 4000.1, providing updates for the following:


Additional Required Analysis of Stability of Employment Income
Additionally, flexibility when calculating income for borrowers who experienced a gap in employment and/or a reduction of loss of income due to the COVID-19 pandemic has been updated allowing a borrower to be employed in the same line of work for at least six months at the time of case assignment.

https://www.hud.gov/press/press_releases_media_advisories/HUD_No_22_129

Kentucky Mortgage Guidelines for Income, Employment, and credit scores

Kentucky Mortgage Lender for First Time Home Buyers for FHA, VA, USDA, KHC Kentucky Housing







Kentucky Home Loans Preapproval Checklist
  • A driver’s license or U.S. passport
  • Verification of employment
  • Recent pay stubs covering the last 30 days
  • W-2 forms from the previous two years
  • Last two years of personal federal income tax returns with all pages and schedules. If self-employed, last two years of individual federal income tax returns with all pages and schedules, as well as a business license, a year-to-date profit and loss statement (P&L), a balance sheet, and a signed CPA letter stating you are still in business
  • Bank account statements proving that you have enough to cover the down payment and closing costs. If someone is helping you with the down payment, a gift letter stating that the fund is a gift a
  • Last quarterly statements for asset accounts (401(k), IRA, stock accounts, mutual funds)

Kentucky Mortgage Loan Preapproval: What To Know

What affects your home loan preapproval

Your income, work history, credit score, money down and  saving are key factors that lenders will consider during the mortgage process.

Employment Status for Kentucky Mortgage Pre-Approval

Self-employed individual requires two-year tax returns'.

Only borrowers who have an ownership interest of 25% or more in a business and are not W-2 employees are considered “self-employed.” However, there is an exception if the borrower can show a two-year history in a similar line of work, which includes having documentation that proves an equal or higher income in the new role compared to the W2 position.

Debt-to-Income Ratio

The debt-to-income ratio is the percentage of your monthly gross income that goes toward paying debts. There are two types of DTI that lenders will consider during the mortgage process: front-end and back-end. The first consists only of your housing-related expenses, whereas the latter also includes all your minimum required monthly debts.

The lower your DTI, the better your chances of securing a home loan. 

For example, FHA loans secured by the government have more lenient requirements — you can have a DTI of up to 57% and still get approved for an FHA home loan. USDA loans used to buy homes in rural areas have a lower maximum DTI of 45%.

Loan-to-Value Ratio

The loan-to-value ratio (LTV) is a number lenders use to determine how risky a loan to a potential borrower might be. It measures the relationship between the loan amount and the market value of the property you want to buy, and it can also determine whether mortgage insurance will be required.

All mortgages have a maximum LTV to qualify. However, just like with DTI, the LTV varies depending on the loan. FHA loans, for example, have an LTV of 96.5% since they allow down payments of as little as 3.4%.

Going for an LTV of 80% or less is “ideal” because you get unique benefits as a buyer, but that requires a down payment of 20%. Ultimately, each buyer will need to figure out their own LTV based on how large a down payment they can afford.

Credit History and FICO Score for Kentucky Mortgages 

Your credit history is one of the most important factors when it comes to getting a mortgage.

Credit History and FICO Score for Kentucky Mortgages





Best Kentucky Mortgage Lender for First Time Home Buyers in Kentucky

You don’t need a perfect credit score to buy a house, but those with outstanding scores are usually rewarded with lower interest rates and a greater variety of payment options. Buyers with very poor credit have the option of finding a co-signer who has better credit than them to help secure the loan.

Why Getting Preapproved Is Such a Big Deal

Getting preapproved for a mortgage helps you shop for homes that you can afford and shows you are a serious buyer.

But a letter of preapproval is more than just a way to look good to sellers. It also helps you find the right mortgage lender and provides some flexibility in bargaining or negotiating for a better price range or specific costs, repairs, and improvements to a home.

Getting preapproved makes the entire closing process faster, too. It takes an average of 30 to 45 days to close on a house in Kentucky, and part of that period is due to the process of mortgage approval, title search, appraisal report, home inspections, verifying employment and bank account info along with taxes and w-2s and paystubs to validate the pre-approval.

What are standard continuity of employment requirements?

A borrower will need to verify a two-year cumulative employment history. Less than two year may be 

offset via school transcripts; if guaranteed hourly (40) or salaried in nature, the base income 

will be allowable. Variable earnings will require at minimum 12 months receipt on current position; 

OT, Bonus and commission are considered variable however, must reflect a cumulative two- year 

history of receipt.


What income can I use for a traveling nurse?

A minimum 12-month history of contract nursing work is required. Income documentation must

 include  copies of applicable contracts and WVOE’s for each position. The income will be averaged. 

Standard two- year employment history required.


Do we allow one score on a conventional transaction? No score?

Yes! If the borrower has three scores, the middle score is to be used; two scores, the lower score 

is to be used; one score, that score is to be used.  If no score, only allowable with AUS A/E and 

less than 50% of transactional income contributions. We do not average scores.


Can I use part time or secondary income for qualifying purposes?

Yes! Conventional~ secondary employment will require a two- year history of receipt to use in 

conjunction with the primary employment earnings. Multiple second jobs over this time frame are 

allowable however the borrower may not have a job gap > one month in length. Part time employment 

alone will be considered variable in nature and will require a minimum 12- month history; earnings 

will be averaged. FHA~ will require an uninterrupted two- year history for utilization.


When must a borrower start a new job in conjunction with future employment?

Conventional requires a start date within 90 days of the Note date. FHA requires a start date 

within 60 days of note date. VA max 60 days of note date. Non contingent contract required for each 

entity.


What type of income(s) are considered illegal?

Foreign shell banks; medical marijuana dispensaries; any business or activity related to 

recreational marijuana-use , growing, selling or supplying- even if permitted by state or local law.

 Policy is not limited to  owner of business.


Joel Lobb
Mortgage Loan Officer
Individual NMLS ID #57916

American Mortgage Solutions, Inc.

Text/call:      502-905-3708
fax:            502-327-9119
email:
          kentuckyloan@gmail.com


The Dos & Don’ts of Applying for a Mortgage in Kentucky



DO maintain up-to-date records The mortgage application process is paperwork-heavy, and lenders could ask you to pull up records at a moment’s notice. To make things easier for yourself, make sure you have the following records readily available:

  • Income: Underwriters typically verify income and tax documents through your employer, so hold onto new paystubs as you receive them.
  • Assets: It’s best practice to save all incoming account statements in the order in which you receive them; keep all numbered pages of each statement.
  • Gifts: If you’re receiving any gift money from relatives, they’ll need to sign a gift letter (which your loan officer will provide) and an account statement evidencing the source, which must be “seasoned” funds.
  • Current Residence: If you’re currently renting, continue to pay your rent on time and save proof of payment. If you intend to sell your current residence, be prepared to show your HUD-1 Settlement Statement. If you plan on renting out your home, you may need to show sufficient equity, a lease, and receipts for the security deposit and first month’s rent.

DO keep your credit score in mint condition. Continue to make payments on time. The lender might pull your credit report again, and any negative change to your score could jeopardize your approval.

DO understand that things change. The requirements to receive approval for a home loan are always changing, and underwriters require more documentation now than they have in the past. Even if requests seem silly, intrusive or unnecessary, keep in mind that if they didn’t need it, they wouldn’t ask for it.

DON’T apply for new credit. Changes in credit can cause delays, change the terms of your financing or even prevent you from closing on a home. If you must open a new account (or even borrow against retirement funds), be sure to consult your loan officer first.

DON’T change jobs midway through the process. Probationary periods and career or status changes — such as from a salaried to a commission-based position, leave of absence or new bonus structure — can be subject to strict rules.

DON’T make undocumented deposits. Large (and sometimes even small) deposits must be sourced unless they’re identified. Make copies of all checks and deposit slips, keep your deposits separate and small, and avoid depositing cash.

DON’T wait to liquidate funds from stock or retirement accounts. If you need to sell investments, do it now and document the transaction. Don’t take the risk of the market working against you, leaving you short on funds for closing.


Do's and Don't of Getting A Mortgage Approved and Closed in Kentucky?.

Dos & Don’ts of Applying for a Mortgage in Kentucky 

Kentucky First Time Home Buyer Programs For Home Mortgage Loans: Job History Requirements for a Kentucky Convention...

Kentucky Conventional Mortgage

Two year is standard but shorter employment histories may be permitted for applicants with stable jobs and incomes or other positive factors
Explainable employment gaps of six months or more are also permitted as long as the applicant has been back to work for at least six months and has a two year employment history prior to the work gap

Self-employed borrowers are typically required to demonstrate a two year job history
A self-employed job history of between one and two years is permitted if the applicant was previously employed in a similar field and earns a similar or greater income as evidenced by the borrower's tax returns
Self-employed applicants are also required to provide business tax returns for two years unless the business is at least five years old

A continuous two year history of part-time employment is typically required although part-time work history of one-to-two years may be permitted for stronger applicants
A two year history of seasonal work in the same job or line of work is required
Lenders are also required to verify with the applicant's employer that the applicant will be rehired for the next employment season
Borrowers with seasonal employment are permitted to use unemployment compensation as income as long as the compensation is due to regular, seasonal employment breaks

A two year employment history is recommended for bonus, commission or overtime income to be considered but guidelines permit an income history of one-to-two years for borrowers with strong employment, financial and credit profiles

Kentucky FHA Mortgage Program

The FHA Program does not technically have an minimum employment history requirement but lenders are required to verify applicants' employment history for the prior two years
Applicants are required to explain any employment gaps of at least one month
Explainable employment gaps of six months or more are also permitted

Self-employed borrowers are typically required to demonstrate a two year job history
A self-employed job history of between one and two years is permitted if the applicant was previously employed in a similar line of work for at least two years
A combination of one year of employment in a similar field plus one year of education or training in that field is also permitted for self-employed borrowers

An uninterrupted two year history of part-time employment is typically required although part-time work history of less than two years may be considered as long as the lender determines that the work is likely to continue
Income from seasonal employment is also permitted as long as the applicant has a two year work history and expects to be rehired for future seasons

A two year employment history is required for bonus, commission or overtime income to be considered
An employment history of less than two years is allowed if the lender justifies and documents the reason for including the income
Lenders are also required to explain any significant declines in bonus, commission or overtime income
Significant fluctuations in bonus, commission or overtime income may require the lender to use an average period of longer than two years to calculate the applicant's income

Kentucky USDA Mortgage Program


The USDA Home Loan Program does not technically have an minimum employment history requirement but lenders are required to verify applicants' employment history for the prior two years and confirm that the applicant's income is stable

Applicants are required to explain any employment gaps of at least one month
Explainable employment gaps of six months or more are also permitted as long as the applicant can document the reason for the gap, has been back to work for at least six months and has a two year employment history prior to the work gap

Self-employed borrowers are typically required to demonstrate a two year job history as documented by the applicant's tax returns

A self-employed job history of between one and two years is permitted if the applicant was previously employed in a similar line of work for at least two years or one year of work plus one year of formal education or training

The lender is required to confirm that the self-employment income is expected to continue for at least three years

A self-employed history of less than one year is not permitted

An uninterrupted two year history in the same position is typically required for part-time employment although a part-time work history of less than two years may be considered if the lender verifies with the employer that the work is likely to continue at the same compensation level

Income from seasonal employment is permitted as long as the applicant has a two year work history and expects to be rehired for future seasons

The lender is required to determine that part-time and seasonal income is expected to continue for the next three years

Income from part-time or seasonal work must be reported on the borrower's tax returns to be considered by a lender

A consecutive two year payment history and determination by the lender that the income is expected to continue for the next three years is required for bonus, commission or overtime income to be considered
Bonus, commission or overtime income earned for less than a year is not permitted without significant compensating factors such as a change in the applicant's compensation structure

Lenders are required to explain any significant declines in bonus, commission or overtime income
Significant variations in bonus, commission or overtime income may require the lender to use an average period of more than two years to calculate the applicant's income

Kentucky VA Mortgage Program


The VA Program requires lenders to verify an applicant's employment history for the prior two years although there is no minimum employment history guideline

Applicants with an employment history of less than a year may be considered if the lender determines and documents that the applicant has a high probability of continuing his or her job
The applicant's employment history is evaluated on a case-by-case basis

Active military personal who are within 12 months of their release date are required to reenlist or provide verification of a job offer after their release from the military

Self-employed borrowers are typically required to demonstrate a two year job history unless the applicant was previously employed in a similar line of work or received specialized training in that field

A self-employed history of less than one year is highly uncommon

A continuous and verified two year history of part-time employment is generally required
The applicant's income from part-time work should be steady and predictable and the lender is required to determine that the work will continue in the future

The lender is also required to confirm that applicants can handle the part-time job along with the demands of their primary job

A two year work history is required for bonus, commission and overtime income to be considered by the lender unless the borrower has extensive experience or training in their field of work

The lender must determine that the income is predictable and likely to continue in the future
Bonus, commission and overtime income with less than a two year work history is rarely permitted and requires extensive documentation by the lender






Joel Lobb (NMLS#57916)
Senior  Loan Officer
American Mortgage Solutions, Inc.
10602 Timberwood Circle Suite 3
Louisville, KY 40223

Company ID #1364 | MB73346

Text/call 502-905-3708

If you are an individual with disabilities who needs accommodation, or you are having difficulty using our website to apply for a loan, please contact us at 502-905-3708.

Disclaimer: No statement on this site is a commitment to make a loan. Loans are subject to borrower qualifications, including income, property evaluation, sufficient equity in the home to meet Loan-to-Value requirements, and final credit approval. Approvals are subject to underwriting guidelines, interest rates, and program guidelines and are subject to change without notice based on applicant's eligibility and market conditions. Refinancing an existing loan may result in total finance charges being higher over the life of a loan. Reduction in payments may reflect a longer loan term. Terms of any loan may be subject to payment of points and fees by the applicant  Equal Opportunity Lender. NMLS#57916http://www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org/