Separate leave income from the confirmed return position
We review current statutory and employer pay, expected return date, contracted hours and any written change agreed with the employer. Childcare and the household’s revised spending also belong in the affordability discussion. Both applicants’ income and commitments are considered together.
How I approach the case
We begin with what you want to achieve, your timescale and any part of the case that needs explaining. I review the evidence and suitable lender routes, then explain the available options and their costs. A recommendation follows the individual assessment; an initial conversation does not commit you to an application.
Where legal, tax or other specialist advice is needed, we identify it early so the finance fits the wider transaction. Tell me about any change in employment, borrowing, deposit or property details before proceeding.
What to prepare
- Recent payslips and leave-pay schedule
- Employer confirmation of return date and terms
- Partner income where relevant
- Expected childcare and household costs
- Deposit and property details
You do not need every document before saying hello. Start with a short outline; detailed or sensitive records should follow through an agreed secure route.
A planned return to work should be supported by appropriate evidence and may be assessed differently by each lender. Do not understate future childcare or household costs.
Your questions, answered
Can my normal salary be used while I am on leave?
A lender may consider the confirmed return-to-work position alongside current leave pay, but evidence requirements differ. We review the employer confirmation, return date, hours and expected household costs.
Do childcare costs need to be included?
Yes. The budget and lender assessment should reflect realistic future childcare and household commitments. Omitting a known cost can make the application and personal budget unreliable.
What if I plan to return on fewer hours?
Use the actual expected terms. If reduced hours have been agreed, obtain confirmation of the role, hours, salary and return date so the application does not rely on income that will not continue.
Further reading: MoneyHelper: mortgages and homebuying. Content reviewed 17 September 2026. General information; availability depends on the individual case.