If you’re ready to buy a home and apply for a mortgage, you’ll need to gather your paperwork. Here’s a helpful checklist to help you and any co-borrowers prepare to file your mortgage application.
 

• Bank Statements: You’ll need bank statements from the last three months for your checking account, savings accounts and investment accounts. If you don’t have hard copies, statements for your checking and savings can be printed through your online banking. You’ll need to provide a written explanation of any large withdrawals or deposits.  

• W-2s: Collect the last two years of W-2s from your employer. You may be able to find them easily by going through your tax returns or asking the person who prepared your tax return.  

• Outstanding Debt: If you owe any money, document how much debt you owe and to whom.  

• Self-Employment Statements: If you’re self-employed or get paid commissions, you’ll need to show your last two years of personal and business tax returns, along with all profit-and-loss forms. You also may need to show a year-to-date business profit-and-loss statement for the current year if three or more months have passed since the end of the tax year. 

• Pay Stubs: Gather your most recent pay stubs. If you get paid each week, collect your last five pay stubs. If you get paid biweekly, gather your last three pay stubs. If you get paid monthly, you’ll just need your last month’s pay stub.  

• Home Purchase Contract: You’ll need to provide a contract signed by both you and the seller that shows you are ready to buy a new home.  

• Form 4506-T or 4506T-EZ: These forms allow the (bank or credit union) to obtain a copy of your income tax return. Your mortgage officer will provide these to you. 

• Identification: A copy of your driver’s license or state ID and possibly Social Security card.  

• Current Address: List the address of your current home and any places you’ve lived over the last two years. If you’ve been renting, also include the contact information for your landlord(s).  

Other requirements may apply, depending on your specific situation. This general guide covers the basic forms and documents you’ll need to supply your mortgage banker.

Once you’ve gathered your paperwork and are ready to take out a mortgage, contact your Ameris Bank mortgage banker or apply for a mortgage online.  

Reviewed April 2025

All loans subject to credit approval.

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.