Self-Employed / BFS

Self-employed income is real income—but most bank underwriters can't see past line 150 on your tax return. We work with lenders who add back legitimate business expenses, average two to three years of income, and accept stated-income files when documentation is clean.

The three documentation paths

Full-doc traditional

Two years of T1 Generals + NOAs. We add back depreciation, business-use-of-home, and other non-cash items.

Stated-income (BFS) program

For business owners with 2+ years of self-employment, often with as little as 10% down. Income is supported by bank statements, invoices, and business licences.

Alt-A and B-lender solutions

When traditional underwriting doesn't fit—often a 1–2 year stepping stone back to prime lending.

How we structure your file

Before submitting anywhere, we review your tax returns, NOAs, and corporate financials with you. We identify which lender's underwriting box you fit best—not the one who happens to have a flyer in the mail this month—and present your file the way that lender wants to see it.

Incorporated professionals

Doctors, dentists, lawyers, accountants—we have specific lender programs that recognize professional corporations and use a blend of T1 personal income and corporate retained earnings to qualify you.

Frequently asked

How many years of self-employment do I need?

Most lenders want two years. A handful of programs accept one year if you were in the same field as an employee before incorporating.

Can I use my gross business revenue?

Generally no—lenders qualify you on net income after legitimate expenses. We help identify which expenses underwriters will allow you to add back.

Will I pay a higher rate as self-employed?

On full-doc programs, no—same rate as a salaried borrower. On stated-income or B-lender programs, expect a premium of 0.25%–1.5% depending on the file.