Low doc home loans — a flexible path to home ownership for the self-employed.
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What is a low doc home loan?
Standard paperwork doesn't always show what you really earn.
A low doc (or alt doc) loan is for borrowers who can't easily provide payslips or up-to-date tax returns — most often self-employed people whose business is newer, growing fast, or between tax lodgements.
Instead, you show your income with other documents — such as an accountant's signed income declaration, BAS or business bank statements — to buy, invest or refinance.
Key features of a low doc loan.
How it works
Simpler application
Alternative documents, like an accountant's income declaration, replace full financials.
Flexible criteria
Designed for borrowers who don't fit standard bank checklists.
Buy, invest or refinance
Available for owner-occupied homes, investment properties and refinancing.
Higher rates
Because lenders take on more risk, rates are usually a little higher than full doc loans.
Lower LVR limits
Lenders often cap borrowing at 60–80% of the value, so you may need a bigger deposit.
Who low doc loans suit
- Business owners and company directors
- Entrepreneurs with a newer or fast-growing business
- Freelancers and contractors
- Sole traders with an active ABN
- Anyone with a non-traditional income pattern
Why SYD Mortgage for low doc lending?
- We work with self-employed borrowers every week and know which lenders accept which documents.
- We compare rates, fees and LMI premiums, not just the headline rate.
- Once your tax returns are lodged, we review moving you to a sharper full doc rate.
- Options for owner-occupied homes and investment properties.
How we get your low doc loan approved
| Step | What we do |
|---|---|
| 1. Document assessment | Work out which documents you can provide, what you need, and which lenders you qualify with. |
| 2. Lender selection | Choose the lender with the best mix of rate, fees and LMI that still has the features you need. |
| 3. Application presentation | Package and submit your application so it presents your business clearly and favourably. |
Common ways to verify income
| Document | What lenders look at |
|---|---|
| Accountant's declaration | Your accountant confirms your expected income |
| BAS statements | Usually the last 6–12 months of turnover |
| Business bank statements | Usually 3–12 months of regular deposits |
- Tip: only provide the documents the lender asks for. If you hand over a partial or old tax return, the lender must consider it and may then ask for full financials for every entity.
- Most lenders want an ABN held for at least 12 months; some want 24 months and GST registration.
- The lender still checks your credit file, assets, liabilities and living expenses.
Let's get you home
Frequently asked questions
How long do I need to have had my ABN?
- Usually at least 12 months; some lenders want 24 months.
Is a low doc loan more expensive?
- Rates are often a little higher, and LMI may apply above 60–80% LVR depending on the lender. The best rates are usually for loans under 60% LVR.
Can I refinance into a low doc loan?
- Yes — low doc loans can be used to refinance, including to consolidate business-related debts in some cases.
Can I switch to a normal loan later?
- Yes. Once two years of tax returns are lodged, we can review refinancing to a full doc loan.
Official resources
General information only, based on typical lender policies as at 31 Oct 2026. Rates, LVR limits and loan sizes vary by lender — confirm your situation with us before acting.
