The Pre-Approval Checklist: Every Document You Need to Win

The Standard List

To structure your deal correctly, I need to see the full picture of your income and assets. Gather these now so we can move fast:

• Income: Your last 2 years of W-2s and your 2 most recent paystubs.

• Taxes: Your last 2 years of full federal tax returns (all pages and schedules).

• Assets: Your 2 most recent months of bank statements for every account you own.

• Identification: A clear copy of your driver’s license and social security card.

The Biggest Red Flag: Large Deposits

This is where most buyers trip up. Lenders have to "source" every dollar used for your down payment. If I see a random $2,000 deposit that isn’t your paycheck, the underwriter will flag it.

What you need to watch out for:

• Cash is King (but not here): If you have $5,000 in cash saved up, do not deposit it into your bank account right before you apply. We can't verify "cash on hand".

• The Paper Trail: If you sold a car or received a gift from family, you have to show the bill of sale or a signed gift letter and the transfer of funds.

• Keep it Clean: For at least 60 days before you apply, keep your bank activity limited to normal payroll and bills.

The Bottom Line

Getting these to me upfront allows me to solve problems before they become delays. If your paperwork is ready, we win.

Want a printable PDF of this checklist?

Send me a quick message, and I’ll get it to you today.

Questions about this? Send me a message or call 512-300-8611, in English or Vietnamese. See also home loans in round rock with Ai Tran.

Ai Tran, NMLS #2627075. Loans through Loan Factory, NMLS #320841, in Texas and California only. Equal Housing Lender. Subject to underwriting approval; not all applicants qualify. Disclosures · Texas disclosures · NMLS Consumer Access. This post was first published on 2026-04-12; market figures are as of that date.