Online mortgage brokers usually need the same documents as traditional brokers, but these are typically shared through secure online systems rather than in person. Most borrowers are asked to provide proof of income, identification, bank statements and details about the property they’re buying or remortgaging.
This guide explains which documents online mortgage brokers commonly request, why they’re needed, and how the process works when everything is handled digitally.
Why do online mortgage brokers ask for documents?
Mortgage brokers need documents to understand your financial position and assess which lenders are likely to accept your application. Lenders have strict criteria around income, affordability and identity checks, and brokers use your documents to match you with suitable mortgage options.
Online mortgage brokers follow the same requirements as face-to-face advisers. The main difference is that documents are usually uploaded through secure online portals rather than handed over in person.
Proof of identity and address
Most online mortgage brokers will ask for proof of identity and address at an early stage.
This commonly includes:
- A valid passport or driving licence
- A recent utility bill or council tax statement
- A bank statement showing your current address
These documents help satisfy anti-money laundering and identity verification requirements. They are typically uploaded securely rather than emailed.
Proof of income
Proof of income is one of the most important parts of a mortgage application. The documents required depend on how you are paid.
If you are employed, brokers usually ask for:
- Recent payslips, often covering the last two or three months
- A recent P60
- An employment contract, in some cases
If you are self-employed, you may be asked for:
- SA302s or tax calculations
- Corresponding tax year overviews
- Company accounts, if you run a limited company
Online mortgage brokers will explain exactly what is needed and how to upload these documents securely.
Bank statements
Some lenders require recent bank statements to assess spending habits and confirm income.
Typically, online mortgage brokers will request:
- Bank statements covering the last two to three months
- Statements for any account where income is paid
- Statements showing regular outgoings and commitments
These are usually uploaded as PDF files through a secure system rather than sent by post.
Deposit or equity evidence
If you’re buying a property, you’ll need to show where your deposit is coming from. If you’re remortgaging, you may need to confirm your existing equity position.
Documents may include:
- Savings account statements
- Evidence of gifted deposits
- Proof of sale proceeds from another property
Online brokers often guide borrowers carefully through gifted deposit requirements, as lenders have specific rules around this.
If you’re remortgaging, they may ask for a recent mortgage statement to confirm the outstanding balance.
Property details
Online mortgage brokers will also ask for details about the property.
This may include:
- The property address
- Purchase price or estimated value
- Details of the estate agent or seller
- Information about the property type
How are documents shared with online mortgage brokers?
Most online mortgage brokers use secure online portals where you can upload documents directly. These systems are designed to protect sensitive information and make it easier to track what has been provided.
In some cases, brokers may also accept documents via secure email or encrypted messaging systems, but uploading through a portal is increasingly the norm.
This approach reduces delays and avoids the need for face-to-face meetings.
Do online mortgage brokers keep your documents secure?
Reputable online mortgage brokers use encrypted systems and follow data protection rules when handling personal information. Documents are stored securely and only shared with lenders where necessary.
Brokers are also required to keep records of advice and documentation in line with regulatory requirements.
As a borrower, you should always check how your information will be stored and avoid sharing sensitive documents through unsecured channels.
What if you don’t have all the documents straight away?
It’s common not to have everything ready at the start. Online mortgage brokers can often begin an initial assessment using basic information and then request documents later in the process.
A good broker will explain what’s needed, why it’s required and when it must be provided to avoid delays.
Do online brokers need more documents than face-to-face brokers?
No. Online mortgage brokers do not usually require more documents than traditional brokers.
The requirements come from lenders, not the broker. The difference lies in how the documents are collected and managed, with online brokers relying on digital systems rather than in-person meetings.
Looking for an online mortgage broker with a simple document process?
If you want to work with advisers who use online systems to manage documents securely and efficiently, our Best Online Mortgage Brokers guide highlights firms selected for their ability to support borrowers digitally while delivering clear, personalised advice.
