To obtain a mortgage without income proof in the United States, explore non-traditional loan programs, leverage alternative documentation, or pursue specialized lending products. Non-traditional lenders may accept assets, savings, or investment history as proof of repayment capacity. For example, the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) allows borrowers to use tax returns, bank statements, or retirement accounts to demonstrate financial stability. Additionally, private lenders and hard-money lenders often provide mortgages based on collateral rather than income verification, though these typically involve higher interest rates and shorter loan terms.

The primary reason mortgages can be obtained without income proof is the availability of alternative underwriting criteria. Traditional lenders require income documentation to assess repayment risk, but non-traditional programs focus on cash reserves, asset liquidity, or property value. According to a 2023 report by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), approximately 12% of U.S. mortgages in 2022 used alternative documentation methods, driven by demand from self-employed individuals, gig workers, and those with irregular income. The Federal Reserve’s 2023 Survey of Consumer Finances notes that 7.3 million households used non-traditional underwriting criteria to secure mortgages, with 45% citing income instability as a key factor. However, such loans often carry higher interest rates (e.g., 8-12% for hard-money loans) and stricter terms compared to conventional mortgages. Lenders may also require larger down payments (e.g., 20-30%) to offset risk. These practices reflect the evolving housing market and financial inclusion efforts, though they remain riskier for borrowers and lenders alike.