If you’re applying for a home loan in the coming year, don’t sweat it. We’ve got you covered. Saving you time and effort, here’s a list of six documents everyone should have before applying for a home loan.

Photo ID

You’ll most likely have to present a photo ID, such as a driver’s license. This is only to verify that you are who you say you are.

Bank Statements and Other Assets

When determining your risk profile, lenders may want to see your bank statements and other assets. This can include savings and insurance policies like life insurance. They want to know that you have several months’ worth of mortgage payments in reserve in case of an emergency and that your down payment has been in your account for several months, not just recently deposited.

Credit History

Lenders will often obtain your credit record with your verbal or written consent to evaluate you as a borrower. If there are any inaccuracies in your credit report, you might need to explain them. A past short sale or a foreclosure is an example of something that might cause a problem on your credit report.

Tax Returns

Lenders want to see a snapshot of your entire financial picture. To ensure that you aren’t hiding anything, you’ll probably need to sign a Form 4506-T authorizing the lender to request a copy of your tax returns from the IRS. Lenders typically ask for one or two years’ worth of tax returns, which should match your reported income on recent pay stubs.

W-2s, Pay Stubs, or Other Proof of Income

Pay stubs and tax returns can help lenders understand your current financial situation and overall financial health. If you are self-employed or have additional sources of income (such as child support), you might have to provide verification through 1099 forms, direct payments, or other methods.

Renting History

Rental history is important when you don’t have an extensive credit history. Many lenders want proof that you can make on-time payments from purchasers who do not currently own a house. You could provide a year’s worth of canceled rent payments or your landlord’s confirmation that you have always paid rent on time.