Mortgage While on Maternity Leave — What You Need to Know
Being on maternity leave does not automatically prevent you from getting a mortgage. However lenders treat maternity leave income in very different ways — some use your current reduced income, some use your full salary, and some require you to have returned to work. Knowing which lender to approach is everything. Darryl places maternity leave mortgage cases regularly.
💷 How Lenders Assess Maternity Leave Income
- Employer letter confirming return-to-work date and salary
- Last 3 payslips before maternity leave started
- Current maternity pay evidence (SMP award letter or employer enhanced pay letter)
- 3 months bank statements
- Partner income details if joint application
🏦 What Lenders Look At
- Confirmation of return-to-work date and salary from employer
- Whether you are receiving statutory or enhanced maternity pay
- How long remaining on maternity leave at point of application
- Partner income if joint application
- Whether any adverse credit exists alongside the maternity leave
❓ Common Questions
Can a lender decline me just because I am on maternity leave?
Legally lenders cannot discriminate on the basis of pregnancy or maternity leave under the Equality Act 2010. However they can legitimately assess affordability based on your current income. The key is finding a lender who uses your full salary with an employer letter rather than your reduced mat pay.
Should I wait until I return to work to apply for a mortgage?
Not necessarily. If you have a confirmed return-to-work date and salary letter from your employer, applying during maternity leave is perfectly viable with the right lender. Darryl will advise on whether applying now or waiting is the better approach for your specific situation.
What if I am not going back to work after maternity leave?
If you intend to leave work after maternity leave, lenders will assess your application on your actual current and future income rather than your pre-leave salary. This may reduce your borrowing capacity but does not prevent you from applying — your partner income and other income sources would be the focus.
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Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
This page is for general information only and does not constitute regulated financial advice. Individual circumstances vary. Lender criteria are subject to change without notice.