Can you remortgage while on maternity leave?
In many cases, yes. Most lenders won’t automatically decline you just because you’re on maternity leave — but they will want a clear picture of your income both now and once you return to work.
Some lenders will assess affordability using your normal income (pre-leave), but only if you can evidence your return date and confirm your pay level when you’re back. Others may use your current maternity pay, which can reduce borrowing temporarily — this is where presenting your case properly matters.
What lenders look for
When you apply, lenders typically expect to see:
- Your return-to-work date (and whether you’re going back full-time or part-time)
- Maternity pay details (what you’re receiving now and how long it lasts)
- Partner’s income if you’re applying jointly (often key for comfort on affordability)
- Savings/buffers if you’ve got a short-term income dip
Steps to improve your chances
- Speak to an adviser early — we’ll match you to lenders that are comfortable with maternity cases.
- Get your return-to-work plans clear (date + expected hours + expected pay).
- Keep your credit score tidy — avoid missed payments, and minimise new credit where possible.
- Gather supporting documents (payslips, bank statements, employer confirmation where relevant).
- Compare the whole market — not just your existing lender (this is often where the best options appear).
FAQs
Often, yes — but it depends on the lender and your wider affordability. Some lenders will use maternity pay as the “current” income, while others may use your expected income once you return to work (if we can evidence it properly).
Not necessarily. If your current deal ends soon, waiting could mean you fall onto a higher standard rate. It’s often better to explore options early — and choose the most sensible route based on lender criteria and timings.
No — criteria varies a lot. That’s why “whole of market” advice helps: we can focus on lenders that are comfortable with maternity cases rather than forcing you into a one-size-fits-all approach.
Typically: payslips (pre-leave and/or maternity pay slips), bank statements, proof of ID/address, and sometimes an employer letter confirming return date and expected income. We’ll tell you exactly what’s needed based on the lender we’re using.
Helpful reading: Payslips guide • Bank statements guide
