# How do child/spousal support payments affect mortgage qualification?

> Support payments paid out are added to total debt obligations in TDS calculations.

Category: Legal
Last verified: 2026-02-18
Source: https://ratellow.com/faqs/legal/how-do-childspousal-support-payments-affect-mortgage-qualification

## Answer
Support payments paid out are added to total debt obligations in TDS calculations. Support payments received can be counted as qualifying income if: (1) documented in a court order or separation agreement, (2) received consistently for at least 6 months, (3) expected to continue for at least 3 years. Lenders may gross up non-taxable child support by 25% for qualification purposes.

## Related guide
- https://ratellow.com/guides/divorce-separation-mortgage

## Sources
- CMHC Spousal Buyout — 95% LTV Exception — https://assets.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/sf/project/cmhc/pdfs/factsheets/new/cmhc-quick-reference.pdf
- B-20 Refinancing Standards — https://www.osfi-bsif.gc.ca/en/guidance/guidance-library/residential-mortgage-underwriting-practices-procedures-guideline-2017#2.4.3