Don't bother applying
I make $85k per year. 800 credit score, never had a late payment. Applied for a $40,000 consolidation loan and they denied me because they were not able to verify my income despite me sending my 2024 taxes (2025 not done yet - filed extension), Last paystub of 2025 to show total annual income. April and May 2026 paystubs and also sent a balance letter from my brokerage showing $70,000 in cash reserves. I am a licensed realtor and primarily do property management. Paid via 1099 monthly. I have shown steady income for last 2 + years. I am their dream client. I bet they give a loan to someone with a 600 credit score with missed payments as long as they have a W-2. I am convinced the people reviewing loans have no idea what they are looking at or doing.