The single biggest cause of delayed closings isn't the lender — it's missing paperwork. Gather these documents before you apply and your file moves to the front of the line. Find your borrower type below, add the "everyone" list, and check the Georgia/Florida section at the end.
Everyone Needs These
- Government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport)
- Social Security card or ITIN letter (CP565)
- Last 2 months of bank statements — all pages, even blank ones
- Proof of funds for your down payment and closing costs
- Name and phone number of your homeowner's insurance agent (or ask us for referrals)
- If applicable: green card or EAD, divorce decree, child support order, bankruptcy discharge papers
If You're a W-2 Employee
- Pay stubs covering the most recent 30 days
- W-2 forms for the last 2 years
- Federal tax returns for the last 2 years (sometimes required)
- Employer name, address, and HR phone number for verification
- If you changed jobs recently: offer letter and first pay stub from the new job
If You're Self-Employed or a Business Owner
- Bank statement program: 12–24 months of business or personal bank statements
- Traditional documentation: 2 years of personal and business tax returns, plus a year-to-date profit & loss statement
- Business license or registration (2+ years in business is ideal)
- CPA or tax preparer contact information
If You File Taxes with an ITIN
- ITIN assignment letter from the IRS (or CP565 notice)
- Passport, matrícula consular, or other government ID
- 2 years of tax returns filed with your ITIN — or 12–24 months of bank statements if self-employed
- 12 months of rent payment history (canceled checks, transfers, or landlord letter)
- Alternative credit references: utility, phone, and insurance payment histories
If You're a Foreign National
- Valid passport (and U.S. visa, where applicable)
- Income letter from your employer or accountant in your home country (translated)
- 2–3 months of foreign bank statements showing down payment and reserves
- International credit report or reference letters from your banks
- Documentation of the currency transfer — plan international wires 30+ days ahead
Georgia & Florida Extras
- Florida condos: the lender will need the condo association's contact info, budget, and master insurance policy — ask the listing agent for the HOA/condo package early.
- Florida flood zones: if the property is in a flood zone, a flood insurance quote is required before closing. Get quotes as soon as you're under contract.
- Georgia closings are attorney closings: a closing attorney handles your file — only send wire transfers after verifying instructions by phone with the attorney's office directly.
- After closing, file your homestead exemption to lower property taxes: by April 1 in Georgia and March 1 in Florida for that tax year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long are my documents valid during the mortgage process?
Paystubs and bank statements are usually good for 30–60 days; tax returns cover the filing year. Send recent documents and expect a quick refresh request if your closing takes longer.
Do self-employed borrowers need more documents?
Yes — typically two years of personal (and often business) tax returns plus a year-to-date profit & loss, or 12–24 months of bank statements on a bank-statement program.
Can I send photos of my documents from my phone?
Yes. Our secure upload portal accepts phone photos and converts them to PDF automatically — no scanner needed.
Prepared by the Alvorada Mortgage, LLC team — a mortgage broker licensed in Georgia (#2137907) and Florida (#MBR5158). NMLS #2137907. Educational content; not a commitment to lend.