Summary: Yes, child support and spousal support may be considered income when applying for a mortgage in Canada, but acceptance depends on the lender and the applicant’s circumstances. Lenders typically want documentation showing the amount being received, the terms of the support agreement, and a reliable history of payments. Mortgage qualification requirements vary between lenders.
When applying for a mortgage, employment income is not necessarily the only income that can help you qualify. If you regularly receive child support or spousal support, a lender may be willing to include some or all of those payments when determining how much you can borrow.
Can Child Support Be Used as Mortgage Income?
In some cases, yes. A mortgage lender may consider child support as part of your qualifying income if the payments are documented and expected to continue.
The lender may ask for documents such as:
- A separation or divorce agreement
- A court order outlining the support arrangement
- Bank statements showing regular deposits
- Other documentation confirming the payment history
Exactly what is required will depend on the lender and your mortgage application.
Can Spousal Support Count as Income?
Spousal support can also potentially be considered when qualifying for a mortgage. As with child support, lenders generally want evidence that the payments are established, consistent, and likely to continue.
The length of time remaining on a support agreement may also be relevant to a lender’s decision.
What If You Pay Child or Spousal Support?
Support payments can affect a mortgage application in the opposite direction as well. If you are required to make child or spousal support payments, a lender may consider those ongoing obligations when calculating how much mortgage debt you can afford.
This is one reason it is important to disclose your full financial situation when applying for mortgage financing.
Why Working With a Mortgage Broker Can Help
Lending guidelines are not identical across every bank and mortgage lender. One lender may assess support income differently than another.
A mortgage broker can review your income, debts, support arrangements, credit, and down payment before comparing available mortgage options. This can be particularly valuable when your income does not fit neatly into a traditional salary-based mortgage application.
Have Questions About Qualifying for a Mortgage in Lethbridge?
If child support or spousal support makes up part of your household income, it does not necessarily prevent you from qualifying for a mortgage. The important question is how lenders will assess that income as part of your overall application.