Variable income is not a definitive barrier to credit. It is simply a reality demanding an adapted presentation.

Documents to prioritise

  • Two latest tax returns. They give a stabilised annual view, independent of monthly variations.
  • Balance sheets of the last two fiscal years, for shopkeepers and craftsmen.
  • Professional bank statements over 12 months. They show the actual rhythm of receipts.
  • Current contracts or order book, when relevant.

Calculating reference income

Don't take the best month. Don't take the worst either. Take the average of the last 24 months — that's the figure an advisor will use.

Variable income stable over 24 months is treated as equivalent fixed income. Variability is not the issue — lack of history is.

The safety margin

For variable income, apply a 30% rule instead of 33%. This additional margin absorbs a three-month temporary drop without putting the loan at risk.

Anticipating questions

An advisor will ask: is your activity seasonal? How do you handle quiet periods? Do you have recurring clients or only one-off missions? Prepare these answers.

Our practice

At CREDITO SOLIDARIO, about one-third of accepted files involve variable income. We know the specifics of these profiles and take the time needed for review.