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NMLS 2412313
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Requirements

Can I use self-employed income for FHA?

Short answer

Yes. FHA can use documented self-employment income. Two years in business is common; certain borrowers with one to two years may qualify with the required prior related work history.

Plain-English explanation

What this actually means.

HUD’s stated shorter-history path requires at least two years of previous work in the same line or a related occupation. The lender reviews returns and business records, permitted adjustments, and current income stability. A drop in income needs review; gross sales and bank deposits are not automatically qualifying income.

Practical example

A simple example

A buyer ran a business for 18 months after several years doing related work as an employee. The history may fit a permitted review path, but the lender still needs the required records and enough usable income. Eighteen months in business alone does not establish approval.

Illustration only. This is not an approval or a loan offer.

What can change the answer?

Where this can move.

Time in business, related prior work, tax records, expenses, current trend, income stability and lender requirements.

Check the sources

Sources checked . Program guidance and lender requirements can change.

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(407) 906-6414
Office
Orlando, FL · serves all of Florida
Licensing
NMLS 186790 · Company NMLS 2412313 · Florida MBR5733
Equal Housing Opportunity

Educational only. FHA guidelines, lender overlays, rates, fees, and underwriting requirements can change. Final eligibility depends on full underwriting review. Mortgage Expert, Inc. is not affiliated with HUD, FHA, or any government agency.

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