A remote worker mortgage letter is a crucial document that verifies the employment and income details of a remote worker who is applying for a mortgage. The primary purpose of this letter is to provide mortgage lenders with the necessary information to assess the applicant’s ability to repay the loan, taking into account their remote work circumstances.
Key Components of a Remote Worker Mortgage Letter
As with any type of approval process, you’ll want to make sure that you have given yourself the best chance to succeed and get the go-ahead. Part of this includes making sure that you have these important pieces lined up:
1. Letterhead and date: The letter should be on company letterhead if provided by your employer or include your business name and contact information if you are self-employed. Make sure to include the current date.
2. Salutation: Use a general salutation such as “To Whom It May Concern” when the specific recipient of the letter is unknown.
3. Employee’s full name, job title, and employment status: Clearly mention the remote worker’s full name, job title or position, and whether they are a full-time, part-time, or contract worker.
4. Start date and remote work arrangement: State the date when the employee began working for the company or started their business. Briefly describe the remote work arrangement, including if it is temporary or permanent.
5. Salary information and work hours: Clearly mention the employee’s annual salary, including any bonuses, commissions, or other forms of compensation. Indicate the employee’s typical work schedule, such as the number of hours they work per week or month.
6. Job stability and future prospects: If possible, provide information on the employee’s job stability or any expected changes in their employment situation. You can also include a statement on the employee’s potential for growth within the company or the stability of their business, as this may demonstrate financial stability to the mortgage lender.
7. Employer’s or business contact information: Include the name, title, phone number, and email address of the person responsible for verifying the information in the letter (usually a supervisor, manager, or HR representative).
8. Statement of good standing: If applicable, mention that the employee is in good standing with the company and has a positive performance record.
9. Confirmation of remote work eligibility (if required): If required by the lender, provide a statement confirming that the employee is eligible to work remotely and that the remote work arrangement complies with company or industry policies.
10. Additional information (if required): Depending on the lender’s requirements, you may need to provide additional information, such as the employee’s job responsibilities, the nature of the remote work arrangement, or any unique circumstances that may impact the employee’s income stability.
11. Closing and signature: Use a professional closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards,” followed by the signature of the employer representative or the self-employed individual providing the letter.
Tips for Preparing a Remote Worker Mortgage Letter
Preparing a remote worker mortgage letter can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some tips to help you craft a letter that effectively communicates your remote work arrangement to your mortgage lender:
Ensure accuracy and up-to-date information: It’s crucial to make sure that all the information you provide in the letter is accurate and up-to-date. Double-check your employment status, salary information, and remote work arrangements to avoid any confusion or discrepancies.
Provide clear and concise information: Keep your letter clear and concise, and avoid using technical jargon or overly complicated language. Your mortgage lender should be able to understand the details of your remote work arrangement without any confusion.
Consult with your employer or HR representative (if applicable): If you’re unsure about any aspect of your remote work arrangement or what information to include in the letter, consult with your employer or HR representative. They may be able to provide additional details or insights that will help you craft an effective letter.
Customize the letter based on the mortgage lender’s requirements: Different mortgage lenders may have different requirements for a remote worker mortgage letter. Be sure to review the lender’s guidelines and tailor your letter accordingly.
Keep a professional tone and format: Your letter should be written in a professional tone and format, and should adhere to standard business letter conventions. Use a formal salutation and closing, and make sure to sign the letter.
Sample Remote Worker Mortgage Letter Template
Below is an example of a mortgage letter that remote workers can use. It has a couple of additional elements that are typically needed during the mortgage process, but that’s a good thing. The more information that can be provided, the better.
If you prefer, you can copy the Google Doc at this link and edit how you see fit!
[Letterhead should go here]
[Date]
To Whom It May Concern,
Re: Employment and Income Verification for [Remote Worker’s Full Name]
This letter is to confirm the employment and income details of our employee, [Remote Worker’s Full Name], who is applying for a mortgage. The information provided below accurately represents their current employment status and compensation.
- Employee’s Full Name: [Remote Worker’s Full Name]
- Job Title: [Remote Worker’s Job Title]
- Employment Status: [Full-Time/Part-Time/Contract]
- Start Date: [Employee’s Start Date]
- Remote Work Arrangement: [Description of Remote Work Arrangement]
- Annual Salary: $[Annual Salary Amount]
- Additional Compensation: [Bonuses, Commissions, etc., if applicable]
- Work Hours: [Number of Hours Worked Per Week/Month]
- Job Stability: [Statement on Job Stability or Expected Changes]
We confirm that [Remote Worker’s Full Name] is in good standing with our company and has demonstrated a positive performance record. [Optional: Include a statement on the employee’s future prospects within the company or the stability of their business.]
[If required: We also confirm that [Remote Worker’s Full Name] is eligible to work remotely and that this arrangement complies with our company policies and industry guidelines.]
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you require additional information or clarification. You may reach [Employer Representative’s Full Name, Title] at [Phone Number] or [Email Address] for any inquiries related to the information provided in this letter.
Sincerely,
[Employer Representative’s Signature]
[Employer Representative’s Full Name]
[Employer Representative’s Title]
[Company Name]
Overcoming Common Challenges for Remote Workers in the Mortgage Process
Demonstrating income stability
One of the primary challenges faced by remote workers in the mortgage process is demonstrating income stability. Mortgage lenders are often concerned with the applicant’s ability to maintain a consistent income over time. For someone that has likely never worked remotely, and in a very slow-moving industry, it can see like this is somehow inconsistent work.
To alleviate these concerns, remote workers should prepare detailed income statements, including tax returns and pay stubs, for at least the past two years. Additionally, they should be ready to explain any fluctuations in their income and provide proof of future income stability, such as a signed contract or a letter from their employer outlining long-term work prospects.
While working remotely offers flexibility and convenience, it can also raise concerns for lenders due to the potential for income fluctuations. To address this, be prepared to provide a thorough record of your income, such as tax returns, pay stubs, and bank statements. Showing consistent and reliable income over time will help instill confidence in lenders and increase your chances of mortgage approval. (source)
Sr. Loan Officer at Frontier Mortgage
When I did freelance work, it was difficult to come up with pay stubs. I had to provide bank statements and pay 6 months in advance just to get into a short-term lease for an apartment. Such a pain! Things are slightly better now (this was back in 2015), but can still be harder than it needs to be.
Providing proof of consistent remote work arrangements
Another challenge faced by remote workers is proving that their work arrangements are consistent and reliable. To address this concern, remote workers should include a detailed work history in their mortgage application, specifying the duration and nature of their remote work arrangements. This information should be supported by the mortgage letter itself, as well as any additional documentation such as signed contracts or performance evaluations that demonstrate a stable remote work history. Better safe than sorry!
Addressing concerns about job security or contractual employment
Remote workers may also face concerns regarding job security, particularly if they are contractors or freelancers. In this case, it’s crucial to present a strong case for your employment stability. Provide documentation that demonstrates your track record of consistent work, such as a list of clients and the duration of your relationships with them. If possible, also include letters of recommendation from clients or employers that highlight your reliability and the likelihood of continued work.
Tips for a Successful Mortgage Application as a Remote Worker
Start preparing early
Begin the mortgage application process well in advance to allow enough time for gathering the necessary documentation, addressing potential challenges, and communicating with your mortgage lender. Early preparation will help ensure that you have all the required information and give you a chance to address any discrepancies or issues before submitting your application.
Maintain clear and open communication with your mortgage lender
Establish a strong line of communication with your mortgage lender throughout the application process. Be proactive in providing required documentation and answering any questions your lender may have about your remote work arrangements, income stability, or job security. Maintaining open communication can help build trust and confidence with your lender, which is essential in securing a mortgage approval.
Seek professional advice from mortgage brokers or financial advisors
Working with a mortgage broker or financial advisor can be beneficial for remote workers navigating the mortgage process. These professionals have expertise in the mortgage industry and can offer valuable guidance on finding the best loan options, preparing a strong application, and overcoming potential challenges specific to remote workers.
Stay organized and diligent in providing the required documentation
Being organized and diligent in providing all required documentation is crucial for a successful mortgage application. Ensure that you keep track of all necessary documents, such as your remote worker mortgage letter, income statements, and proof of remote work arrangements. Keeping your records organized will make it easier to provide these documents to your lender promptly and accurately.
Be prepared to answer questions or provide additional information as needed
As a remote worker, you may be asked to provide further clarification or additional documentation to address concerns about your employment situation. Be prepared to answer questions about your remote work arrangements, income stability, and job security. Having a clear and concise explanation for any potential concerns will help demonstrate your reliability and commitment to the mortgage lender. Additionally, be prepared to provide any additional documentation that your lender may request, such as updated income statements, proof of ongoing contracts, or letters from clients attesting to your reliability and work history.
Wrapping up
This template should help you create a winning letter and answer all the necessary questions that relate to remote work within the mortgage application process. Good luck!
Jared has worked remotely for 15 years in various marketing capacities, and has managed hundreds of marketing campaigns along the way. He has held freelance, agency, and in-house positions for companies large and small.