ITR Requirement for a Home Loan – Everything You Need to Know

Salary slips, bank statements, and credit scores are typically the first things that spring to mind when considering a Home Loan application. However, your Income Tax Return (ITR) is another document that lenders look at with equal importance. The ITR for a Home Loan is important to demonstrate your income stability and determine your eligibility, regardless of whether you are self-employed or salaried.  

This article will explain the importance of income tax returns for Home Loan approval, the minimum ITR required for loan approval, the necessary ITR paperwork for Home Loan applications, and how timely ITR filing can streamline the entire process. 

Why Do Lenders Ask for ITR When You Apply for a Home Loan?

An ITR is similar to a financial report card in that it displays not only your income but also your ability to repay debts and your financial management. Salary slips and bank statements show recent earnings, but ITRs show a more extensive history. 

You might not have a set monthly salary if you are self-employed, for instance, but your ITR shows average annual income, tax compliance, and consistency over time. To put it briefly, your ITR provides the lender with: your income and your financial profile.  

ITR Requirement for a Home Loan – The Basics

Although the terms may vary slightly based on lenders, some criteria are generally the same. Usually, self-employed applicants need to submit the ITR of the past 2-3 years. It enables them to recognise fluctuations in income and to see income stability. Is it required for salaried applicants? Usually, no, but ITRs are still helpful, particularly if there is additional income from sources such as rent.  

Read Also: ITR Filing Process for Home Loan 

ITR Documents for Home Loan – What You’ll Need

Here are the ITR documents required for Home Loan processing that lenders usually ask for: 

• The ITR-V (acknowledgement) of the last 2–3 years 
• Computation of income (for self-employed professionals) 
• Balance sheets and profit and loss accounts audited by a CA (if applicable) 
• PAN Card and Aadhaar Card details (linked to your ITR) 
• Salary slips or Form 16 for salaried applicants to cross-verify income 

ITR Filing for Home Loan Eligibility – Why Timely Filing Matters

Delaying or skipping ITR filing can cause hurdles when applying for a Home Loan. Here’s why timely ITR filing to improve Home Loan eligibility is essential:  

• Avoids processing delays – Missing ITRs may delay the verification process 
• Builds financial history – Filing consistently creates a reliable financial record  
• Captures additional income – Without an ITR, you may lose the chance to factor in additional earnings (rent, freelance, etc.) towards eligibility 

Tips to Strengthen Your Home Loan Application with ITR 

• Always file ITR on time, even if your income is below the taxable limits. 
• Include all sources of income—salary, rent, freelancing, interest—so lenders see your full repayment capacity. 
• Keep documents like Form 16, salary slips, and bank statements aligned with your ITR. 
• If you’re self-employed, ensure your accounts are audited and filed correctly. 

ITR for a Home Loan acts as a financial credibility. Submitting the right ITR documents for a Home Loan and being consistent in tax filing can make your borrowing journey easier.