You can get a mortgage without a W-2 in California using self-employed programs: bank-statement, P&L, 1099, or asset-based loans. These qualify you on deposits, a CPA statement, 1099 income, or assets — no W-2 or tax returns required on most.
Why no W-2 isn't a problem
W-2s prove employee wages. Self-employed borrowers, contractors, and business owners simply document income a different way — and non-QM programs are built exactly for that.
Your options without a W-2
- Bank statement — qualify on deposits.
- 1099 — qualify on 1099 income.
- P&L — qualify on a CPA statement.
- Asset depletion — qualify on assets.
What you'll need
Proof of self-employment or 1099 work, a mid-600s+ score, 10–20% down, and the income documents for your chosen program. See how to get a mortgage when self-employed.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a mortgage without a W-2?
Yes — bank-statement, 1099, P&L, and asset-based programs qualify self-employed and contractor borrowers without W-2s.
What do I use instead of a W-2?
Bank deposits, 1099s, a CPA-prepared P&L, or liquid assets, depending on the program that counts the most of your income.
Is a no-W-2 mortgage more expensive?
These non-QM loans price modestly above conventional; shopping multiple lenders keeps the gap small.