I Get Paid Well in Cash – So Why Can’t I Get a Home Loan?

You’re not alone.
I get plenty of mortgage inquiries from people who earn good money working cash-in-hand jobs. Yet, when it comes time to apply for a home loan, they hit a wall.

Let’s talk about why that happens and what you can do about it.

💵 The Reality of Cash Jobs and Home Loans

In Australia, lenders need to see proof of stable, verifiable income before they’ll approve a home loan. Even if you’re earning $1,500 or $2,000 a week cash, if that income isn’t declared or traceable, it won’t count toward your borrowing power.

Here’s why:

• Banks assess your ability to repay the loan using tax returns, payslips, bank statements, and ATO data.
• If you’re not declaring your cash income to the ATO, it doesn’t exist in the eyes of the lender.
• Even if your boss is paying you cash, if it’s not going into your bank and declared as income, it can’t be used.

🔍 “But I Can Afford It!” – Yes, But That’s Not Enough

Many people say, “I pay $500 a week rent easily, why can’t I pay off a mortgage?”
And it’s a fair point — but banks don’t work on logic, they work on policy and documentation.

That’s the frustrating part.

✅ Here’s What You Can Do:

1. Start Declaring Your Income: Lodge your taxes properly. Even one full year of consistent, declared income can make a big difference.
2. Bank Your Cash: If you’re paid cash, make sure it’s deposited into your bank account consistently. This builds a paper trail.
3. Switch to Legit Employment: If possible, look at switching to a role that pays super and provides payslips.
4. Work With a Broker Who Understands: Some lenders are more flexible than others. I help clients structure their finances in a way lenders can work with — even if they’re self-employed or transitioning from cash work.

💬 Final Thoughts

If you’re serious about buying a home or investing in property, the first step is getting your income visible and verifiable.
At Truth Group, I help clients build a roadmap — even if they’re not quite ready today — so they can get approved tomorrow.

Not sure where you stand? Reach out for a quick chat. I’ll let you know what’s possible — no judgement, just solutions.