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

TX Loan Officer
April 12, 2026•1 min read

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 #1 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.

Ai Tran
Loan Officer, Round Rock, Texas
https://www.loanfactory.com/aitran
512-300-8611

Loan Factory | NMLS #320841
Ai Tran | NMLS # 2627075
NMLS Consumer Access

The Pre-Approval Checklist
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