How should annual income from employment be calculated?

Calculating annual income from employment should be done using tenant-provided documents such as pay stubs because these documents offer the most current and accurate representation of an individual's income. Pay stubs typically reflect deductions, bonuses, and other factors critical in assessing take-home pay, allowing for a more precise calculation of what tenants actually earn on a regular basis.

When relying on tenant-provided documents like pay stubs, it allows for a more comprehensive understanding of an individual's ongoing financial situation, which can change frequently. This method ensures that the income assessment is both up-to-date and reflective of any recent changes in employment status or pay rate.

While other options might provide useful information, they do not necessarily capture the most accurate, real-time income data that pay stubs do. Relying solely on tax returns might overlook any recent employment changes, and using the highest income among various sources could misrepresent a tenant's actual financial position. Additionally, while the EIV (Enterprise Income Verification) system provides a useful tool for verification, it may not reflect the most current income adjustments and does not replace the importance of direct, tenant-provided documentation like pay stubs.