Not everyone earns their income the same way, and that is perfectly fine. Whether you are retired, self-employed, or earning extra through a rental suite or side business, that money can sometimes help you qualify for a mortgage.

While many people think lenders only consider a traditional job paycheque, that is not always the case. With the right documentation and consistency, your full income picture can often work in your favour.

Here is how different types of non-traditional income may be recognized during your mortgage application.

Based in Calgary, our team at Canadian Mortgage Professionals works with clients across Alberta to help them understand what income lenders recognize and how to make every source count.

Pensions and Disability Income

If you receive regular payments from a workplace pension, RRIF withdrawals, or long-term disability benefits, those funds can usually be included as part of your income.
What you will need: Pension or disability statements, tax slips such as a T4A or T4RIF, and recent bank statements showing ongoing deposits.

Government Benefits

Income from the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), Old Age Security (OAS), or Canada Pension Plan (CPP) may also qualify with the right paperwork.
What you will need: CRA benefit statements or official letters confirming continued payments.

Spousal or Child Support

Support payments that are consistent, legally documented, and ongoing can count toward your qualifying income.
What you will need: A signed separation agreement or court order, and several months of bank statements confirming deposits.

Rental or Suite Income

If you rent out a legal suite or own an investment property, lenders may include part or all of that income when assessing your application.
What you will need: A signed lease agreement, market rent appraisal letter, and sometimes your most recent tax return.

Investment and Trust Income

Interest, dividends, or trust distributions can help boost your application when reported as consistent income.
What you will need: T5 or T3 slips and recent investment statements.

Side Hustle or Self-Employment

Freelance work, contract jobs, or gig income can count if it has been consistent over time and properly reported to the CRA.
What you will need: Two years of tax returns (T1 Generals and NOAs) showing your self-employment income.

Why Proof Matters

Lenders want to see that your income is reliable, steady, and likely to continue. Strong documentation such as CRA notices, official benefit letters, and bank statements helps demonstrate that your additional income is dependable.

The Value of a Mortgage Broker

Every lender views income a little differently. Some may include all of your rental income, while others might only count part of it. The same goes for government benefits or self-employment earnings.

Note that mortgage insurers (CMHC, Sagen, and Canada Guaranty) can each interpret non-traditional income a little differently, and that is something your brokers navigate for clients.

A knowledgeable mortgage broker understands which lenders accept which income types and can position your application for the best outcome. With the right guidance, every dollar you earn can strengthen your approval and help you secure the mortgage that fits your life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rental income to qualify for a mortgage in Alberta?
Yes. Many Alberta lenders accept rental income from a legal suite or investment property as part of your qualifying income. The amount included depends on lender policy.

Does child support count as income for a mortgage?
If it is legally documented and consistent, child or spousal support can often be included in your mortgage application.

Can gig work or freelance income be used?
Yes. Lenders may include freelance or side hustle income if it has been reported to the CRA for at least two years.

Do Alberta credit unions treat income differently?
Some Alberta-based credit unions, may offer more flexibility for unique income situations. We can help you find the right fit.

Curious if your income qualifies?
We can review your situation and match you with the right lender so you can make the most of your financial picture.

[email protected]
403-509-2434
www.canadianmortgagepro.com
Apply now