Back to: Finding Your Place: Overcoming Barriers in Rental Housing

Before you begin your rental application, you should gather and review the documentation that will help you to be prepared. Here’s a checklist to help you get everything in order:

• Proof of Income: This could be recent pay stubs, tax returns, or bank statements that show you have a stable income to cover the rent.  If you have non-traditional employment where documentation is not possible, you can use bank records to show deposits.  If you have non-traditional income and do not have a bank account, then a letter explaining that you are paid in cash and an explanation of how much you make per month would be helpful to present to the landlord.  You do not need to explain the nature of your work and if it is sensitive in nature, it is recommended that you do not disclose more than you are required to, do not lie but do not volunteer more than is requested.  Example might be that some or all of your income comes from professions that may carry a social stigma.
• Reference Letters: Letters from previous landlords, employers, teachers, religious leaders etc that can vouch for your reliability as a tenant. These are especially helpful if you’ve faced rental challenges in the past.
• Rental History: Details of your previous rentals, including addresses and dates of tenancy, can demonstrate your experience as a tenant.
• Criminal Record Documentation: If you have a criminal record, getting a copy can help you understand any potential hurdles and address them directly with landlords.  
• Certificate of Rehabilitation (if applicable): This document proves you’ve made significant positive changes following any past criminal or substance abuse issues. It can be a big plus in overcoming past issues that may show up
• Letter from Your Probation Officer, counselor or sponsor (if applicable): A letter detailing your compliance with probation, counseling or treatment that can support your application by showcasing responsibility
• Support Animal Documentation: If you have a service or support animal, include any relevant documentation, like a letter from a healthcare provider, counselor or other entity or person that certifies that your support animal qualifies for an exemption and is a medical necessity not just a pet
• Utility Payment Plan Options: If you’ve had trouble with utility bills in the past, showing that you’ve researched prepaid plans or assistance programs can be helpful as well as showing that you have paid off any back utility bills that you owe or have setup a payment plan
• Rental Assistance Program Information: If you’re exploring or already part of a rental assistance program, having documentation on hand can clarify your financial arrangements for potential landlords.
• Credit Report: Grab a copy of your credit report to know where you stand. It’ll show your credit history and give you a chance to explain any issues upfront.  You are entitled, by law, to a free credit report each year, watch this video for information on how to get one. .