How recent do my documents need to be?

Most lenders require documents dated within the last 30 days. Bank statements and payslips should be your most recent. ID documents just need to be current (not expired).

What if I can't find a document?

For payslips, ask your HR or check your employee portal. For bank statements, download from online banking. For ATO documents, use myGov to access your ATO account.

§ Tool · tier 3 · independent

Document Checklist Generator.

Get a personalized checklist of documents needed for your loan application

AI advisorFree, no signupOn-deviceLiveupd February 2026

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Your numbers

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Move the sliders or type in the form on the left — the math updates live as you go. Click Get AI verdict when you want a written analysis.

Different lenders want different documents, especially for self-employed or complex income. Our AI generates a checklist tailored to your employment type and chosen lender, so you're prepared before you apply.

§ Worked examples

Real-world scenarios

PAYG Full-Time Employee

Sarah works at a corporate job, base salary plus quarterly bonuses.

Inputs

employmentType:Full-time PAYGlender:Not sure yetvisaStatus:Australian Citizen

Standard docs: ID, 3 payslips, 2 most recent bank statements. For bonuses: lender may want 2 years' payslips showing consistency or letter from employer.

Self-Employed Sole Trader

Mike runs a landscaping business, 4 years established.

Inputs

employmentType:Self-employed (sole trader)lender:Not sure yetvisaStatus:Australian Citizen

Need: 2 years' personal and business tax returns, ATO NOAs, 6 months' business bank statements, ABN registration, current accountant letter.

§ FAQ

Questions Australians ask

§ Glossary

Plain-English definitions

ATO NOA (Notice of Assessment)

An official letter from the ATO confirming your taxable income and any refund/debt for a financial year. Essential for self-employed applicants.

100 Points ID

A scoring system for identity verification. Primary documents (passport, birth certificate) score more than secondary (license, Medicare card).

VOI (Verification of Identity)

The process lenders use to verify you are who you claim to be. Usually done via video call or in-person at Australia Post.

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How to use

01Select your employment type
02Choose income components that apply
03Select preferred lender if known
04Get personalized document checklist

Pro tips

Have 3 months of payslips ready - most lenders require these for PAYG employees
Self-employed? Get your last 2 years of tax returns and ATO NOA from your accountant
Take screenshots of bank statements with your name and BSB visible
Prepare digital copies - most applications are now online and you'll need to upload

Avoid these

Not having the latest documents - payslips and statements must be within 30 days
Forgetting to include all income sources - rental, dividends, and government benefits need documentation too
Having expired ID documents - check passport and license expiry dates
Not matching names exactly - your ID, bank statements, and payslips must all match

Disclaimer: Estimates only. Interest rates, fees and policies change frequently. Always verify with lenders directly. General information, not personal financial advice.

Last updated · February 2026