Mortgages while on maternity or parental leave
You can explore buying, renewing or refinancing while on leave. A confirmed return date may let a lender consider your return-to-work salary, while your household budget still needs to work on leave income.
Prepare a return-to-work letter and a budget for the months on leave.
How lenders assess your income
Some lenders and insurers can consider return-to-work salary when employment and the return date are documented.
Tell us when you plan to return, whether your position is permanent and whether your hours will change.
The lender may need proof that income or savings can cover payments until you return.
EI, board top-up and an extended or unconfirmed leave can change the assessment.
Your documents
- Board letter confirming your position, return date and return-to-work salary
- Recent pre-leave pay stubs
- Details of EI, board top-up and other household income
- Savings records and other income documents requested by the lender
How we help
- Confirm the lender policy and any conditions before you commit.
- Prepare a budget for both the leave period and the return to work.
- Include childcare costs and any planned change to workload.
A return-to-work letter is not a guarantee that full salary will count. Tell us if your return date, hours or employment status may change.
Parental leave mortgage questions
Can a teacher on maternity or parental leave get a mortgage?+
Yes, subject to approval. Some lenders can consider return-to-work salary with board confirmation of the position, salary and return date. They may also need evidence you can cover payments during the leave.
Do my pension (OTPP) deductions hurt my mortgage approval?+
No. Lenders qualify you on gross income, before deductions. Your pension contribution does not reduce the income figure used to assess you.
What documents does a teacher need for a mortgage?+
Start with a current employment letter and pay stubs, plus identification and down-payment records. For variable income, prepare earnings history and assignments. Ask for the lender checklist before requesting extra documents or payment-account details.
Talk to us
Emily & Jeff Mudrick
Mortgage agents, Mudrick Mortgages
Serving teachers across Ontario.
Talk through your mortgage options
Discuss your teaching income, budget and plans. We will explain the next steps for your situation.