FHA other income: retirement, benefits, support and investment income can matter just as much as a paycheck.
Non-employment income can qualify when FHA's documentation, continuance and calculation rules are satisfied. Each source has its own test.
Social Security and disability benefits
FHA permits qualifying Social Security and eligible disability income when properly documented. Continuance requirements apply. Where income is verified as non-taxable, FHA may permit an appropriate gross-up under the handbook rather than treating the net benefit as though it were fully taxable wage income.
Pension and retirement income
Pension, retirement distributions and similar income can be effective income when the amount and required continuance are documented. Asset balances and withdrawal terms matter when the income depends on distributions from an account.
Alimony, child support and maintenance
A borrower is not required to disclose support income they do not want considered. When used to qualify, FHA requires documentation of the legal obligation/award, receipt history and remaining continuance under the applicable rule.
Trust income
Trust income can qualify when the trust documentation establishes the payment amount, frequency, access and required continuance. The underwriter must distinguish recurring income from merely having assets in a trust.
Investment / interest / dividend income
Interest and dividend income require history and sufficient assets remaining after closing to support continued receipt. Liquidating the very asset producing the income can change the calculation.
Notes receivable and other recurring income
FHA provides standards for notes receivable and other documented recurring sources. The lender must establish both receipt and continuance rather than relying on an informal promise of future payments.
Policy source
Primary source: HUD/FHA Single Family Housing Policy Handbook 4000.1, including the August 12, 2026 update. FHA policy, AUS findings and lender overlays must be verified for the actual transaction.