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Working as a nurse rarely follows a standard routine. You might have your main NHS role, pick up extra bank shifts, or rely entirely on bank work for flexibility. It’s a setup that suits your lifestyle – but when it comes to getting a mortgage, it can make things a little more complex.
We understand your profession
At Strive, we know the nursing world isn’t 9–5. The long days, rotating shifts, and flexible contracts that keep the system running can make mortgage paperwork feel like another challenge. That’s where we come in.
We specialise in helping NHS and healthcare professionals secure their homes. While we’re not medical experts, we understand your world from a mortgage standpoint – shift allowances, overtime, banding, agency work, and those all-important unsocial hours.
We know which lenders to approach, what they look for, and how to present your income in a way that gives you the best possible chance of approval.
How lenders view nursing bank income
Most lenders will accept nursing bank income – the difference lies in how they treat it. Some are flexible and will use 100% of it in their affordability calculations, while others are more cautious, treating it like overtime or zero-hours income if it’s your only source.
What lenders look for
Consistency and track record
The longer you’ve received bank income, the better. Some lenders want to see 12–24 months of payslips, while others are happy with three months if the pattern is regular.
Sole vs supplementary income
- If your bank work is your only income, lenders often want to see a longer history and stronger evidence of stability.
- If it’s supplementary to your main NHS role, many lenders treat it like overtime and will average it over the past three to six months.
How much of it they’ll use
This varies widely. Some lenders only use 50–60% of your bank income, while others will take 100% if it’s consistent.
Employer setup
Some lenders prefer you to be with one NHS trust or private employer, while others are happy with multiple trusts, provided the income pattern is steady.
How much can you borrow?
Most lenders offer around 4.4 to 5 times your income, though higher multipliers of 5.5 or even 6 times can apply for first-time buyers or higher earners.
The way your income is assessed can make a real difference.
Example:
- £10,000 annual bank income used at 100% = £50,000 borrowing (at 5x)
- £10,000 used at 50% = £25,000 borrowing (at 5x)
That figure is then added to your base salary and any other income you have.
Outstanding service and clear communication are at the core of what we do. But don’t just take our word for it—read firsthand experiences from our clients and discover why they rate us a 5-star mortgage broker.
Which lenders accept nursing bank income?
Most high-street lenders accept bank income, but each applies its own criteria. Some may:
- Require 12 months of consistent payslips
- Use 100% of the average from your recent earnings
- Cap it at 50% if it fluctuates
A number of smaller building societies are particularly good with NHS and medical professionals, especially if you rely heavily on bank or agency work.
| Lender | Approach to Bank Income | Typical Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Leeds Building Society | Does not accept nursing bank income | N/A |
| Halifax | Considers 100% of income | Minimum 3 months’ payslips |
| Accord Mortgages | Requires long-term history | 2 years minimum evidence |
| Nationwide | Accepts with consistent history | 12 months with the same employer |
| Santander | Accepts with track record | 12 months’ payslips showing regular income |
| TSB | Uses 60% of income | Accepted if main income, or zero-hours if sole income |
| Skipton Building Society | Accepts consistent income | 12 months’ history required |
| Barclays | Can consider up to 100% of nursing bank income | 3 months minimum of consistent payslips |
What documents you’ll need
When using nursing bank income for a mortgage, lenders usually ask for:
- Recent payslips – typically 3 months, though some may want up to 12 or 24 if bank work is your main income
- P60 – to confirm your annual earnings and employment history
- Bank statements – usually 3 months, showing your salary being paid in
- Employment contract – especially if you’re on a zero-hours or bank agreement
- Photo ID and proof of address – passport or driving licence, plus a recent bill or statement
- Additional documents – if you’re paid via an agency or self-employed, lenders may ask for SA302s, tax calculations, or accountant references
Why nurses choose Strive
We work with NHS staff every day and know how to make your income work in your favour. From understanding payslip structures and shift patterns to identifying which lenders will consider your full earnings, we take care of the details that matter.
With Strive, you’ll:
- Maximise your recognised income
- Access lenders suited to your circumstances
- Save time by avoiding those who won’t consider your setup
- Get clear, proactive advice at every step
Whether you rely solely on bank work or use it to boost your core salary, we’ll help you find a lender that understands your profession as well as we do.
Jamie Elvin
Jamie is an expert in all things mortgages, and our most experienced broker. Connect with Jamie and get started to see how Strive Mortgages can help you.
