Mortgage While on Sick Pay: Realistic Options and Evidence Lenders Want
A mortgage while on sick pay can feel uncertain, especially when income has temporarily reduced. Many applicants assume sick leave automatically prevents mortgage approval, but this is not always the case. Lenders focus on whether income disruption is temporary and whether long-term affordability remains strong.
This guide explains how lenders assess applications where an applicant is on sick pay, what options may still be available, and the evidence underwriters typically require.
Can you get a mortgage while on sick pay?
In some circumstances, yes.
Being on sick pay does not automatically disqualify you from a mortgage. Lenders assess:
- Whether employment is ongoing
- Whether sick leave is temporary
- What income will apply once you return to work
The key issue is not the illness itself, but whether income is expected to return to a sustainable level.
How lenders assess income during sick leave
Sick pay vs normal salary
Most lenders distinguish between:
- Income received during sick leave
- Contracted income when you return to work
Statutory or reduced sick pay is often treated as temporary and may not be used for long-term affordability if a return to full pay is clearly confirmed.
Length and nature of sick leave
Underwriters will usually consider:
- How long you have been off work
- Whether the leave is short-term or ongoing
- Whether a return date is confirmed
Short-term, defined absences are viewed more favourably than open-ended situations.
What income do lenders base affordability on?
Where return to work is confirmed
If you can provide clear evidence of:
- A confirmed return date
- Your role and hours on return
- Your contracted salary
many lenders will assess affordability using your normal salary, not sick pay.
Where return details are unclear
If return-to-work information is missing or uncertain:
- Lenders may assess affordability on sick pay alone
- Borrowing capacity may reduce significantly
- Some lenders may delay or decline the application
Clarity and documentation make a substantial difference.
Why timing matters
Timing plays a major role in lender confidence.
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Lenders are generally more comfortable when:
- The return-to-work date is close
- You have a stable employment history
- Income on return matches pre-leave levels
Longer absences without clear timelines increase caution.
What evidence do lenders want to see?
1. Employer confirmation
This is often the most important document.
A letter from your employer should confirm:
- You are employed and currently on sick leave
- The sick leave is temporary
- Your expected return-to-work date
- Your contracted salary and hours on return
Third-party confirmation carries far more weight than explanations alone.
2. Employment contract or variation letter
This helps confirm:
- Permanence of employment
- Salary level
- Any changes to hours or duties
If duties or hours will change, this should be documented clearly.
3. Payslips
Lenders may request:
- Payslips before sick leave
- Payslips showing sick pay
This helps them understand both historic earnings and current income.
4. Bank statements
Statements are reviewed to ensure:
- Income matches payslips
- There are no additional financial stresses
- Account conduct remains stable during reduced income
This is particularly important where income has temporarily dropped.
How long do lenders usually want to see stability?
There is no fixed rule, but common expectations include:
- One to three payslips after returning to full pay
- Longer periods where absence was extended or complex
The more recent and certain the return, the fewer documents may be required.
Is sick pay treated like variable income?
No.
Sick pay is treated as a temporary reduction rather than variable income like overtime or bonuses. Once full pay resumes and is confirmed, most lenders reassess affordability on that basis.
Do all lenders treat sick pay the same way?
No.
Differences include:
- How close the return date needs to be
- Whether full salary can be used immediately
- How long-term illness is viewed
Some lenders are more cautious, while others are comfortable lending where evidence is strong.
What if your mortgage has already been declined?
A decline due to being on sick pay does not mean a mortgage is no longer achievable.
However, reapplying without:
- Employer confirmation
- Clear return-to-work evidence
- Time for income to stabilise
often leads to repeat declines.
You can learn more about income checks in our guide on how lenders assess employment income.
Professional advice can help determine when your application is realistically ready to proceed.
Key takeaways
- A mortgage while on sick pay can still be possible
- Lenders focus on whether income disruption is temporary
- Employer confirmation is critical
- Return-to-work timing heavily influences decisions
- Different lenders apply different criteria
This guide provides general information only. Personalised mortgage advice should always come from a regulated mortgage adviser.
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Important information: Mortgage Bridge provides information only and acts as a mortgage introducer. We do not provide mortgage advice or make lender recommendations. We can introduce you to an FCA-regulated mortgage adviser who can provide personalised mortgage advice.