In AB, what should I know about income verification for car loans?
In Alberta, as with all Canadian provinces, income verification for a car loan is a critical step for lenders to assess your repayment capacity and mitigate risk. For traditionally employed individuals, expect to provide your most recent two to three pay stubs, and often an employment letter confirming your position, start date, and annual income. Lenders may also request your T4 slips. Self-employed applicants face a more comprehensive review, typically requiring two to three years of Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) Notices of Assessment (NOAs), corresponding personal and business tax returns, and several months of business bank statements to demonstrate consistent and verifiable income. This thorough verification process is paramount because it directly influences not only your loan approval but also the interest rate and terms you are offered, reflecting the lender's confidence in your financial stability. In the current (2025) market, marked by higher interest rates and economic adjustments, lenders are exercising increased due diligence, making robust income documentation essential for securing favourable financing and ensuring the loan remains affordable for you.