Loan Programs · 6 min read
ITIN Mortgages in California (2026): Buy a Home Without an SSN
An ITIN mortgage lets California buyers who don't have a Social Security number purchase a home using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. These loans are designed for tax-paying residents — including undocumented immigrants — and typically require 10–20% down, proof of income, and a history of filing taxes with your ITIN. They open homeownership to people conventional lenders often turn away.
What is an ITIN mortgage?
An ITIN mortgage is a home loan that uses your IRS-issued Individual Taxpayer Identification Number in place of a Social Security number. Many hardworking California residents pay taxes with an ITIN but can't access standard financing. ITIN loans (a type of non-QM lending) fill that gap. See our ITIN loan program.
What are the requirements for an ITIN loan in 2026?
| Identification | Valid ITIN + government photo ID/passport |
| Down payment | Typically 10–20% |
| Income proof | Pay stubs, bank statements, or 1–2 years of ITIN tax returns |
| Credit | Traditional credit or alternative tradelines (rent, utilities) |
How do you document income without an SSN?
Flexibly. Lenders accept pay stubs and W-2s where available, or — for self-employed borrowers — bank statements and ITIN tax returns. If you lack a traditional credit score, many ITIN programs build a profile from alternative tradelines like rent, utilities, and insurance payments. The key is a consistent, documentable history.
Can ITIN borrowers buy investment property?
Often yes — some ITIN programs allow primary residences, second homes, and even investment properties, though terms vary. For rentals, an ITIN borrower may also explore a DSCR loan that qualifies on the property's income. Talk to us about your specific situation at 888-703-1840.
Frequently asked questions
Can I buy a house in California without a Social Security number?
Yes. An ITIN mortgage uses your IRS-issued Individual Taxpayer Identification Number instead of an SSN, allowing tax-paying California residents — including undocumented immigrants — to purchase a home.
How much down payment do ITIN loans require?
Typically 10–20%. A larger down payment can improve your rate and approval odds, since ITIN loans are portfolio products with lender-set guidelines rather than government backing.
Do I need a credit score for an ITIN mortgage?
Not always a traditional one. Many ITIN programs accept alternative credit — a documented history of rent, utility, and insurance payments — if you don't have a conventional FICO score. A traditional score, when available, can improve terms.
Are ITIN mortgage rates higher?
Generally somewhat higher than conventional, reflecting that these are specialty portfolio loans. The trade-off is access to homeownership for buyers who pay taxes but can't use SSN-based conventional financing.
About this guide: Save Financial is a California-licensed mortgage broker (NMLS #377740, DRE #01875766) serving all 58 counties. Get a custom quote or call 888-703-1840.