Updated for 2025 • SelfEmployedDocs

Self-Employed Income Letter (Full Template + How to Use It)

If you’re self-employed, you don’t get a W-2 or employer-generated pay stubs. So when someone asks you to “prove your income,” you’re stuck writing your own income letter. And if you don’t know what to say, it can feel awkward — like you’re making something up.

Here’s the good news: a self-employment income letter is completely legitimate and widely accepted if you format it correctly and keep the numbers consistent with your bank deposits and pay stub.

Quick answer: A self-employed income letter is a simple written statement confirming your income, what you do for work, and how much you earn. Below is a complete, copy-ready template you can use.

Why lenders and landlords ask for an income letter

When you’re self-employed, there’s no HR department verifying anything for you. So lenders ask for an income letter to:

understand how much you make
confirm that you’re the one who earned it
ensure the numbers match your bank statements
document your income in writing

It’s not complicated — they just need reassurance that the income you claim is real.

How to write a correct self-employment income letter

You want to be clear, simple, and professional. Here’s what every good letter includes:

Your full name and business name (if you have one)
Your job title or type of work
How long you’ve been self-employed
Your average monthly or annual income
Your contact information
A simple signature line

You don’t need fancy wording — just accuracy and clarity.

Self-Employed Income Letter Template (Copy & Paste)

Self-Employment Income Letter Updated: 2025 To Whom It May Concern, My name is ______________________, and I am a self-employed ______________________ (your job type: contractor, freelancer, rideshare driver, independent worker, etc.). I have been self-employed since ______________________. My average income is: • $________ per month OR • $________ per year This income is earned through: _______________________________________________________ (brief description of your work) I confirm that the information above is accurate to the best of my knowledge. If you need additional documentation, I can provide bank statements, a self-employed pay stub, invoices, or other supporting records. Sincerely, ________________________ (Your Name) Phone: __________________ Email: __________________

Pro tip: Pair this letter with your bank statements and a professionally formatted pay stub. It makes approval much easier — especially for apartments and auto loans.

Why you should attach a pay stub with your income letter

Your income letter tells the story. Your pay stub proves the numbers match.

Lenders love structure. When you show:

a clean pay stub
matching bank deposits
a simple income letter

You look organized, responsible, and easy to approve.

Want a clean pay stub to attach to your income letter?

Create a professional self-employed pay stub in minutes using the generator. Instant PDF download.

Generate My Pay Stub →

Should I notarize my self-employment income letter?

Most places do not require notarization. A simple signed statement is enough for:

apartments
car loans
credit applications
benefits programs

However, if you’re applying for a mortgage, some lenders may ask for notarization — but they’ll tell you ahead of time.

What to attach with your income letter (for fast approval)

To make your application almost bulletproof, attach:

Last 2–3 months of bank statements
A self-employed pay stub
Your income letter (the template above)
Optional: a simple profit & loss summary

This is exactly how people get approved even if their income changes month-to-month.

FAQ: Self-Employed Income Letters

Do I need to prove the income I list in the letter?

Usually yes — with bank statements or a pay stub. That’s why pairing your letter with a clean, believable pay stub makes the process smoother.

Is it legal to write my own income letter?

Yes. If you’re self-employed, you are your own employer. This is completely normal and widely accepted.

What if my income changes every month?

That’s common for freelancers and gig workers. Just list your average monthly income. Lenders expect fluctuations.

Do I need a business license or LLC?

No. Sole proprietors (including gig workers and contractors) can write their own income letters without an LLC.

Need to create a pay stub to go with your letter? Start on the homepage, the pay stub page, or learn more on the About Us and Contact pages.