By Ashley Paskill

Filling out your first apartment rental application can feel daunting. What information and documents do you need? It can seem difficult since each application and landlord will be different, but knowing what to have on hand will help you prepare for anything the applications ask you.

via Pexels

Where to apply

Each landlord will have a preferred method of how they like to process applications. Some may have online-only, which may be quicker in the long run, especially for those who are tech-savvy. Older landlords who struggle with technology may offer paper applications only or have both paper and online copies. When you find an apartment you want to apply for, be sure to know where to apply and if the landlord has a specific preference.

Length of application

Depending on the landlord, the application can be as simple as putting in your contact information or as long as filling out your rental and job history. Being prepared for a lengthier application is crucial. You will likely need to provide your social security number so the landlord can run a background check. Some landlords will have you provide a list of references, such as previous landlords or supervisors at work so they can get a sense of your personality and responsibility as a tenant.

Cosigner

Some landlords require a cosigner, especially for student tenants since students are more likely to be first-time renters. If you have a cosigner, they will need to fill out an application of their own and provide their social security number for a background check. Even if your landlord does not require a cosigner, you may opt to have one in case you do not make enough money on your own to prove that you can afford rent.

Financial information

Many rental applications will require you to bring in your last two paystubs from work as well as your bank statement. Depending on your line of work, your landlord will give you the option of one or the other. This information is to show the landlord that you have enough money coming in or already in your bank accounts to pay for rent each month. It is estimated that rent should be about 30% of your income, so if your rent is going to be higher than this, the landlord may opt to not rent to you.

Driver’s license and vehicle information

Landlords will want you to bring your driver’s license with you so they have it on file in the instance you decide to flee the state. Make sure you bring the original, not a copy, and that it is not expired. If you plan on parking at the rental property, your landlord will likely want information about your car as well as proof of insurance should anything happen to your car while on the property.

Proof of residency

If you are not a citizen, you will want to bring papers that prove that you are here legally. This can be proof of residency or any other documents that prove this.

Know your credit score

Before submitting your application, check your credit score and history. You can do this for free using AnnualCreditReport.com. Many landlords will check your credit score to ensure you are responsible and will pay rent on time. They may even tell you the minimum credit score they are looking for. Checking your credit score will allow you to fix any mistakes that are bringing your score down so you will have more of a chance of being approved.

Application fee

When you apply for an apartment, you will likely have to pay about $20-$30 to help cover things like the credit check and the background check. Make sure you bring a checkbook or money to be able to cover the fee when you submit the application so you are prepared and your application can be processed in a timely manner.

Pet information

If you are looking at apartments that allow pets and you are planning on having a pet live with you, your landlord will likely want information on your pet. Be prepared to show that your pet is well-behaved by providing references as well as up-to-date information on their vaccinations. Know the policies about your landlord’s pet security deposit or other fees. If your pet is an emotional support animal, these fees may not have to be paid in accordance with the Fair Housing Act.

The process

The application process is quicker and smoother if you provide all of the necessary information in a timely manner. When you submit the application and the documents needed, ask the landlord what the timeline is like and how long you can expect the process to take. While background checks and other verifications may take additional time, the process may only be a few days.

Applying for apartments can be overwhelming, especially if it is your first time, but knowing what information to provide can help ease the process and ensure that you are successful.