Finding a rental apartment can be hard, particularly if you’re looking to sign a lease without a Social Security Number (SSN). With the increase of identity theft in recent years, numerous renters are hesitant about revealing their SSN to strangers.
Moreover, a number of renters lack the number. In either case, hunting for a rental without it could add a layer of unnecessary stress to a process that’s already stressful.
While this number is important in differentiating you from others with a similar address or names, it isn’t mandatory for acquiring renter screening reports. Here’s how you can find a rental without this number.
Contact Prospective Landlords
When it comes to finding a rental without an SSN, a lot is dependent on the policies of the rental companies and individual landlords. You’ll find that some states restrict landlords from obtaining an SSN to lease to a renter while the case might be different in other states.
Contact those you’re thinking of renting from and establish their requirements. If they require an SSN, you can narrow down your options by removing them from your list. If they don’t, establish what they require and continue with the application.
Find a Global Renter Screening Service
A landlord might consider hiring a company that focuses on verifying and investigating global credit reports and criminal background histories. The companies will be able to give you a comprehensive financial history, particularly if the applicant emigrated from an industrialized nation.
Be prepared to give the applicant’s previous address, visa number, and passport information to the company.
Work History
In numerous cases, you’ll need to offer some form of employment proof. It could be as simple as a contact number for your existing employer. Other landlords will request you to issue the contact information of former employers.
The landlord will use this information to establish whether your employment is gainful and whether you’re in a position to pay rent every month. Individuals who are sacked from numerous jobs are also likely to struggle with their monthly payments. Employment history is another means used by prospective landlords to look into a renter’s background.
Issue Other Documents
While not all landlords will expect you to provide an SSN, the majority will need some form of legal documentation. Therefore, have them ready before you begin apartment hunting. In most instances, if you aren’t an American citizen or resident, a visa or green card will suffice.
Numerous places will even have non-resident application forms. However, if you’re using a work or student visa, be ready to provide a transcript from your educational institution or an employment letter. You might also need to demonstrate that you have cash in an American account. This way, the landlord can confirm that you won’t stiff him or her in future.
Be Ready to Pay Slightly More
While it’s unfortunate, the fact is, a landlord is likely to charge you a higher deposit or ask you to pay the first couple of months’ rent upfront if he or she is unsure about you. Nevertheless, if you have a steady income, strong references, and a good payment history, these factors could dissuade them from demanding too much money from you.
Final Thoughts
Finding a rental can be a daunting task, particularly if you don’t have an SSN. However, this doesn’t mean it’s impossible to secure a unit. You simply need to identify the means of finding a unit without one. If you don’t know where to start, check out this guide.
For more information on how to rent without a Social Security Number, contact us at Apartment Agents or leave a message.