How to Verify SSA Income for a Mortgage

Social Security income can be used to qualify for a home mortgage.


Social Security income can often work in your favor when applying for a home mortgage. While the monthly checks don't amount to a fortune, the lender knows the income is a sure thing as long as you remain eligible for benefits. When applying for the mortgage, you should document the amount of the income and provide verification that the benefits are likely to continue in the future.


Obtain a benefit verification letter from the Social Security Administration. The letter will show what type of benefits you are receiving, along with your monthly payment amount. For some banks, this may be all the documentation you need. You can request a copy at the Social Security website (See Resources). You will first need to create an account, and then request the letter. It will be sent by mail. You also can request a letter by visiting your local Social Security Office, or by calling 800-772-1213 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Eastern time, Monday through Friday.


Make a copy of your federal tax return for the previous year, along with the SSA-1099 form showing how much you received in benefits that year. If you don't have a copy of the SSA-1099 form, you can request one by phone at the same number used to request the letter, or you can go in person to your local Social Security office.


Make a copy of your most recent bank statements that show you are receiving the Social Security payments. These documents are not required by all lenders if you have other documentation, but some will still want this information.

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