The Application Process: Everything You Need to Know

Come Prepared to Get Your Apartment!

Applying for an apartment is a lot like applying for a job — you will be required to show additional documents that will help support your identity and background. After all, your new landlord has only just met you, so establishing yourself as someone who will pay the rent on time and care for their property is imperative. While the management of the apartment you apply for may not ask for all of these things, having them prepared means you’ll be ready to apply right away and not miss out on an apartment you really love.

What Items Should You Bring With You?

Proof of Identity

It’s a safe bet that nearly every apartment is going to want to have some kind of verification of your identity. While for many a simple driver’s license or state identification will be fine, additional forms of ID are good to have handy for a potential apartment manager who needs a bit more information. Try to bring at least two forms of identification just to be safe. Other ID you may want to bring to support your application includes:

• Passport
• Social Security card
• Military ID
• Birth certificate
• Certificate of naturalization or citizenship
• Permanent Resident Card

Top Tip: If you’re in doubt about what to bring, a quick phone call to the property before your viewing will ensure you have exactly what they want before you even go.

Pay Stubs

While you may say on your application that you make a certain amount of money a year, your potential new landlord will need some kind of evidence. Bringing your last few pay stubs can help to confirm your information.

Bank Statements

Though it would be unusual for your application to require both pay stubs and bank statements, you’re essentially looking to prove that you’re 1) getting regular deposits from a job; and/or 2) have a steady income. See which one is preferred for your particular application.

Current Tax Return

Yet another way to prove your income is to show your most recent tax return for the last year. While this may show your income for another job (and could potentially be lower than what you’re currently making), you can easily back up any new position with a letter from your employer.

Job Information

Which brings us to getting information directly from your employer that you can share. Ask your employer to provide a letter that states your salary or hourly wage and how much you work. Though it’s not necessary, throwing in a few things about you being a terrific and reliable employee can also go a long way to help establish you as a trustworthy future tenant.

Rental History & Contact Information

While this really only applies to those who have rented before, having a handy list or letters of recommendation from previous apartment communities and landlords can help establish you as a safe bet for your new tenant. This can be particularly helpful if you’re recovering from a bad credit score.

Your Checkbook or Debit Card

If you’re filling out your application, it’s likely you will be asked to pay an application fee. Application fees can vary from apartment to apartment, so if you’re unsure you will want to contact the apartment manager or landlord before your viewing. By bringing your checkbook or debit card, you’ll be able to apply on the spot for an apartment you really love.

Do you have more questions on the renting process, finding that perfect apartment or what to do after you’ve signed the lease? Check out Apartment Guide’s Renter’s Toolkit — it’s everything you ever wanted to know about renting all in one place!

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