Rental application checklist template

Apartment hunting moves fast. This checklist helps renters gather ID, proof of income, rental history and references before the viewing, so an application can go in the same day.

What this is — and is not

This is a checklist for renters, not a rental application form. Every landlord and property manager has their own application, screening criteria and fees, and some of what is listed here will not apply to you. Use it to gather documents in advance and to keep track of what you have already sent.

Preparing your documents as PDFs

Landlords usually want everything as PDFs. Photograph pay stubs and IDs with Scan to PDF, which straightens and cleans each page and combines several into one file. Black out account numbers you do not need to share before scanning. If the landlord sends their application as a PDF, fill and sign it with FormFlow without printing.

Protect your personal information

Send your Social Security number only through the landlord's secure application system, never in a plain email. Be wary of anyone asking for a deposit before you have seen the unit or signed a lease — rental scams often start that way.

Tips

• Ask what the application fee covers and whether it is refundable.
• Keep a copy of everything you submit.
• Fair-housing laws prohibit discrimination; HUD and your state housing agency have details.

Related tools: Fill PDF form · Sign PDF · Extract form data · Create your own fillable form