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The rental application process
Once you’ve found the home that’s right for you, you need to submit a rental
application. Here’s a general overview of what to expect during the
application process.
Once you’ve found the home that’s right for you, you need to submit a rental
application. Here’s a general overview of what to expect during the
application process.
Everything you’ll need.
There’s a lot to keep track of when preparing to rent a new home. One of the
more detail-oriented tasks you’ll have to complete is a rental application.
Property managers and property management companies use rental applications to
make sure you’re a suitable tenant. These applications tend to have a lot of
required documentation. Understanding what documents you’ll need is
important because submitting incomplete or incorrect paperwork can lead
to application denial or delays.
In this guide, we’ll show you the steps it takes to approve a rental application
and the essential paperwork you'll need to gather so you can present a strong
application for any property you’re interested in.
You’ll gather and organize all of the documents you need for your application.
Recent pay stubs (typically from the last 2-3 months)
W-2 forms or tax returns (for self-employed applicants).
Contact information for previous property managers
Copies of previous lease agreements (if available).
Recent proof of income
Credit report
Vehicle registration and insurance (if parking is included)
Pet documentation (if applicable).
If approved, you'll be invited to review and sign the lease agreement. Then you’ll need to start planning your move.
In certain jurisdictions, property managers may ask to verify your identity.
Having the necessary documents ready with your application can simplify the process and reduce stress. Let’s take a look at the documents you’ll need.
Keep in mind that some property managers may not require all these documents, so it’s a good idea to confirm their specific requirements before submitting your application.
Government-issued photo ID and additional identifying information may be required.
Recent pay stubs (typically from the last 2-3 months)
W-2 forms or tax returns (for self-employed applicants).
Employment offer letter (for new jobs)
Contact information for your current employer.
Recent proof of income
Credit report
Vehicle registration and insurance (if parking is included)
Pet documentation (if applicable).
Enrollment verification
Financial aid award letters
A co-signer letter.
Business license
Tax returns from the past 2-3
years
Profit/loss statements.
Pension award letters
Social Security benefit
statements
Investment income
documentation.
You’ve gathered your documents, but you still want to make sure you
present yourself as the best applicant possible during the rest of the rental
application process and help you secure your desired rental property.
1. Question: How can I show proof of income for rental applications if I’m paid in cash?
Answer: If you’re paid in cash, tax documents such as your 1099 or filed tax returns can serve as proof of income. These provide a record of your annual earnings and, combined with other verification like bank statements, should satisfy most property managers. Discuss your situation with the property manager to confirm they’ll accept these alternatives.
2. Question: How do I show proof of income without pay stubs?
Answer: Alternative proof of income can include an employment letter, W-2 forms, tax returns, or bank statements. Always check with the property manager to ensure your documentation meets their requirements.
3. Question: Why do certain property managers ask for bank statements?
Answer: Bank statements help property managers verify that you have sufficient funds to pay rent consistently. They offer a snapshot of your financial stability and ability to meet rental obligations.
4. Question: Can you use unemployment as proof of income for an apartment?
Answer: Yes, unemployment benefits can be used as proof of income. However, property managers might evaluate whether your benefits cover the rent for the duration of the lease.
Learn more
Our applying & leasing resources are designed to walk you through each step of the process with clarity and confidence.
Our moving guides are here to simplify the process from beginning to end. Moving can be a major undertaking, but with the right planning, it doesn’t have to be stressful. Use these guides to help with your move.
The screening criteria for the community will be applied to each applicant consistently and approval will be determined based on the screening results.
If you're unsure about something you’ve read or have other questions about the property, don't hesitate to ask the property manager.
Keep extra copies of your documents on hand, especially if you’re applying to multiple properties. This preparation can save time and reduce stress.
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