Which document is commonly used to verify an applicant's employment?

The most recent pay stubs are commonly used to verify an applicant's employment because they provide direct and up-to-date evidence of a person's earnings from their current employer. Pay stubs typically outline the employee's income, deductions, and year-to-date totals, which confirm not only the employment status but also the stability of the applicant's income. This information is critical for lenders when assessing an individual's ability to repay a mortgage or loan.

Utility bills, while they may help verify residency, do not provide any information regarding employment status or income. Bank statements can show deposits that might relate to employment income, but they lack the specificity and clarity of a pay stub. Credit reports offer insights into an applicant's creditworthiness but do not directly indicate employment status or income verification. Thus, the recent pay stubs serve as the most reliable documentation for confirming an applicant's employment.