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Loans & Mortgages · September 9, 2026 · 6 min read

P&L-Only Mortgage (CPA Profit & Loss) in California

The lightest-documentation self-employed loan: qualify on a CPA-prepared profit-and-loss statement.

MBBy Mike Basti, Mortgage Broker & Founder · NMLS #377740
Quick Answer

A P&L-only mortgage qualifies you using a profit-and-loss statement prepared by a licensed tax preparer or CPA — often with no bank statements and no tax returns. It's the simplest option for established self-employed borrowers whose accountant can attest to income.

How a P&L-only loan works

Your CPA or licensed tax preparer prepares a P&L for the recent period; the lender uses the net income on it to qualify you. Some programs are P&L-only; others pair the P&L with a couple of months of statements.

Who it fits

Established business owners with a CPA relationship and consistent income who want the least paperwork. Compare with bank-statement and 1099 programs — we pick whichever counts the most income.

Requirements

Typically 2 years self-employment, a CPA-prepared P&L, a mid-600s+ score, and 10–20% down. See our P&L statement loan program.

Frequently asked questions

What is a P&L-only mortgage?

A loan that qualifies you on a CPA-prepared profit-and-loss statement, often without bank statements or tax returns.

Who can prepare the P&L?

Generally a licensed tax preparer or CPA. Some lenders accept a borrower-prepared P&L with additional support; requirements vary.

P&L-only vs bank statement — which is better?

P&L-only is less paperwork if your accountant can attest to income; bank-statement may count more if deposits are strong. We compare both.