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Self-employed & non-QM

1099 Loans

Quick answerA 1099 loan qualifies independent contractors using their 1099 forms (and sometimes a small expense factor) instead of full tax returns, so write-offs on Schedule C do not shrink your qualifying income.
Reviewed by Juan Fernando Romero, NMLS 2557318Updated

Who it is for

  • Sales reps, realtors, nurses, drivers and other 1099 earners
  • Contractors with one or two main payers

Typical 1099 Loans requirements

Documents1 or 2 years of 1099s + YTD proof
Expense factorOften 10% or less
Minimum creditTypically 620–660
Max LTVUp to about 85–90%

Figures are typical market ranges as of October 2026. Actual terms depend on the lender, your credit, the property and the program, and are confirmed on your Loan Estimate or term sheet.

Availability: Offered through our lender network where available, not all programs are available in all states or to all borrowers. Submit your scenario and we will confirm which options your situation qualifies for.

How it works

  1. Total your 1099 income for 1–2 years.
  2. Apply the lender’s expense factor.
  3. Confirm the income continues with YTD statements.

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Pros and cons

Advantages

  • Ignores Schedule C deductions
  • Simple paperwork

Trade-offs

  • Non-QM pricing

Documents you’ll need

  • 1099 forms
  • YTD pay statements or bank deposits
  • Proof of continuing work

1099 Loans FAQ

Can I get a mortgage with just 1099s?

Yes, through 1099-income programs that use the forms instead of tax returns.

How is 1099 income calculated?

Lenders total your 1099s for 1 to 2 years, apply a small expense factor (often 10% or less), and divide by 12 or 24 months for a monthly income.

Do I need 2 years of 1099 history?

Most programs want 1 to 2 years. Two years gets better pricing; one year can work with strong credit and reserves.

What if I have multiple 1099 payers?

That is fine. Lenders add them all together. Having several payers can actually look more stable than relying on one.

What credit score do I need?

Typically 620 to 660, with better rates at 680 and up.

How much down do I need?

Usually 10 to 15% for a primary home. Investment properties need more, typically 20 to 25%.

1099 loan vs bank statement loan?

If your 1099s clearly show your income, the 1099 program is simpler. If your income is spread across many sources or your 1099s understate it, bank statements may qualify you for more.

Can gig workers use 1099 loans?

Yes. Rideshare drivers, delivery drivers, freelancers and anyone else paid on 1099s can use these programs.

Do I need to show the work will continue?

Yes. Lenders want YTD pay statements or recent deposits showing the income is ongoing, not a one-time gig.

How 1099 Loans compare

1099 LoansBank Statement LoansP&L-Only Loans
Best forSales reps, realtors, nurses, drivers and other 1099 earnersBusiness owners and self-employed borrowers with heavy write-offsBusiness owners with a CPA-prepared P&L
Down payment,,,
CreditTypically 620–660Typically 620–660Typically 640–680
Income docs,,,

Typical ranges, your Loan Estimate or term sheet confirms actual terms.

1099 Loans, video explainer
Coming soon: a 2-minute walkthrough from our loan team.

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It takes about two minutes and does not affect your credit score. A licensed loan officer reviews every request.

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