Applying for Rental Housing

Items Needed to Apply for Rental Housing

Securing an apartment takes some preparation but does not need to feel overwhelming. We are here to guide you with the process while you gather all of the required documents and anything extra you can think of that would help along the process to enjoy a smooth signing.

1. Sources of income: Paystubs, Tax Returns, 1099’s

A landlord needs proof that you're financially covered to make rent every month. The rule of thumb is your rent should be no more than 30% of your gross monthly income.

2. Bank Statements

If you don't have pay stubs readily available, bank statements can help provide proof of income. Provide at least two months of bank documents to make it easy on your future landlord and make the process smoother.

3. Credit Report

Your credit report offers valuable insights into your financial past. Your credit report can be pulled for free once a year from the three major credit bureaus. It’s easy to request your credit report.

Choose any of the following:

  • Visit AnnualCreditReport.com to see, print and download your credit report. Complete a Phone Verification
  • Call 877-322-8228 and complete a simple verification process. You’ll need to allow two to three weeks for delivery of your credit report.
  • Complete a Request Form Download a request form at AnnualCreditReport.com.
  • Print out, fill in and mail your completed form to: Annual Credit Report Request Service P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281

4. ID

Before you sign a lease for an apartment, you'll need to bring along a document verifying your identity. A driver's license, passport, or other proof of legal residency is sufficient.

After you've found a property, landlords sometimes request additional documentation.

5. Official Unit Rental Application

Used by landlords to verify their applicants when applying for tenancy. References will more likely be provided within this form.

6. Vehicle Registration and Proof of Insurance

Vehicle registration and proof of insurance are only necessary for an apartment lease if you're bringing a car with you and parking on-site. The landlord needs to know that the vehicles parked on their property belong to the tenants.

7. SSN

Landlords and property managers need a social security number to run a background or a credit check on you. If you provide your own credit report, you may be able to complete the process without disclosing your social security number.

8. Additional Paperwork

It's more common for landlords to ask for extra documentation in a hot rental market or expensive areas with low rental inventory such as:

  • Canceled rent checks
  • Copy of your social security card
  • Past tax returns

9. Your Guarantor’s Paperwork

A lease guarantor can be an essential part of the apartment signing process if you don't earn enough to meet the landlord's requirements, have poor credit, or have gone through an eviction.

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