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Documents Checklist

UK mortgage guide

Documents you need for a UK mortgage application: the complete checklist

· 7 min read

Applying for a mortgage means proving who you are, what you earn, what you owe and where your deposit came from. Lenders in the UK all ask for a similar core set of documents, but the details vary. This checklist covers what most applicants need so you can gather it before you apply and avoid avoidable delays.

The short version

  • Photo ID (passport or photocard driving licence)
  • Proof of address from the last 3 months
  • Recent payslips (usually the last 3 months) and your latest P60
  • Bank statements (usually the last 3 months, sometimes 6)
  • Proof of your deposit and where it came from
  • Details of your debts, credit commitments and regular outgoings
  • Your adviser’s or lender’s own forms

Proof of identity

Lenders must verify who you are. A valid passport is the most common document. A UK photocard driving licence is often accepted as well. Some lenders ask to see originals or certified copies, and others verify identity electronically.

Proof of address

You will usually need evidence of your current address, dated within the last 3 months. Typical examples include a recent utility bill, council tax bill or bank statement. Make sure the name and address match your other documents exactly.

Proof of income if you are employed

  • Your last 3 months of payslips
  • Your most recent P60 (the end-of-year tax summary your employer gives you)
  • Sometimes a letter or contract from your employer if you are new in a job or on a fixed-term contract
  • Details of bonuses, overtime or commission, with payslips showing them

Bank statements

Lenders look at your bank statements to see how you manage money. They usually ask for the last 3 months, and sometimes 6, for the account your salary goes into. Expect them to look at regular commitments, gambling, overdraft use and any large unexplained transfers. Show full pages, with your name and account number visible.

Your deposit

You will need to show that your deposit exists and where it came from. Savings accounts, a sale of a previous property, or a gift from family are common sources. If someone is gifting you the deposit, the lender will usually want a signed gifted deposit letter. See our guide to proving your deposit for more detail.

Debts and commitments

You will be asked about loans, credit cards, car finance, student loans and other commitments. Have recent statements ready that show the balance and monthly payment. Lenders will also check your credit file, so it is worth reviewing your own credit reports in advance.

Other documents you may be asked for

  • Proof of the right to live in the UK, such as a share code from your online immigration status if you are not a British citizen
  • Marriage or civil partnership documents if you are applying with a partner who has a different surname
  • Evidence of child maintenance you pay or receive
  • Details of the property, such as the sales memorandum, from the estate agent
  • Your solicitor’s details

How to speed things up

  1. Gather everything before you submit your application, not as you go.
  2. Use clear, complete scans, with all pages and no cropped corners.
  3. Keep your own copy of each document and name the files clearly.
  4. Answer lender questions promptly, since a missed request can pause the whole application.

Frequently asked questions

How many months of bank statements do I need for a mortgage?

Most lenders ask for the last 3 months of statements, and some ask for 6. Your adviser or lender will tell you what they need.

Do I need a P60 for a mortgage application?

Employed applicants are often asked for their most recent P60 alongside payslips. If you do not have one, your employer can usually provide a copy.

Can documents be digital copies?

Many lenders accept PDF copies, though some ask for originals or certified copies. Follow your lender’s instructions.

Sources and further reading

More mortgage guides

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