Short answer
Yes, once they've vested and been paid to you without restrictions, and the stock is publicly traded. On a Fannie Mae loan, time-based awards need 12 months of history with your current employer. Performance-based awards usually need two years, though 12 months can work with strong factors. The lender averages what vested over the last 24 months. RSUs given as a sign-on bonus don't count.
What will the lender need?
- A paystub showing restricted stock income and two years of W-2s, or an employer verification form that shows the distributions.
- Your current vesting schedule, past and future.
- Brokerage or bank statements showing past distributions and how many vested shares you received.
- Proof the stock is publicly traded.
How is the income figured?
For shares, the lender multiplies the 200-day moving average share price by the vested shares (before taxes) you received in the last 24 months, then divides by 24. For cash payouts, it adds the cash value vested in the last 24 months and divides by 24. With 12 to 24 months of history, it can use the actual number of months. Using a 200-day average smooths out short-term swings in the stock price.
Does the income need to continue?
For a one-time time-based award, the vesting schedule must show income continuing at least three years from your application. Recurring awards and performance-based awards don't need that proof unless there's a reason to doubt them.
Can I sell shares for my down payment?
Yes. Vested shares you own are an asset you can sell. See where your down payment can come from. Selling may have tax effects, so ask a tax adviser.
Sources
Checked November 2, 2026. Rules and dates change, so confirm current details before you rely on them.
General information only, not tax or legal advice. Program availability, eligibility and terms vary by lender and are subject to change and to underwriting approval. Not a commitment to lend.