Renting an apartment with a lower credit score is not impossible. Many renters feel discouraged after being denied, but landlords look at more than numbers. By preparing your documents, knowing what landlords expect, and showing responsibility, you can increase your chances of approval.
For step-by-step coaching, check out Rent4Success Rental Counseling.
The credit score needed to rent an apartment varies depending on location, type of property, and the landlord’s policies. Most landlords set a limit based on their risk tolerance, but individual landlord decisions can differ from property management companies.
Credit scores summarize your payment history, debts, and overall financial responsibility. Landlords and lenders use these scores to determine whether you can pay rent on time and manage other bills.
Read more at Experian’s guide to renting with bad credit.
A good score is usually 680 or higher, while a lower score can fall into the 500s or below. Most landlords worry about late payments, past debt, or financial obligations that suggest higher risk. Learn how to strengthen your profile with Credit.org's tips on improving your credit score.
The ideal credit score to qualify for an apartment depends on the local market. In competitive cities, property managers may expect 700 or higher. In smaller towns, an ideal credit score might be much lower. Review Credit.org's guide on what is a good credit score to understand credit score ranges.
Before applying, pull your credit report to see what landlords will check. You can request a free credit report from each bureau once a year at AnnualCreditReport.com.
Also see LeaseRunner’s blog on credit checks.
Sometimes your credit report has incorrect information or mistakes that hurt your score. Dispute errors directly with the bureaus to remove negative marks before you apply. Use Credit.org's step-by-step guide to disputing errors.
A positive credit history comes from on time payments, low balances, and consistent rent payments. Even if you have late or missed payments in the past, paying bills on time now and working with previous landlords for good references can strengthen your record.
Credit utilization, the percentage of your available credit you use, is a big factor in credit scores. High balances suggest risk to most landlords. Keep your utilization below 30 percent whenever possible.
Improving credit utilization can move you toward a higher credit score. Pay down balances, avoid adding new debt, and make consistent payments to advance step by step.
Credit checks reveal more than just a number. They show landlords your payment history, current debts, and overall financial responsibility. Property managers often compare scores with income and rental history and income to get a complete picture.
Learn more from Zillow’s guide to getting an apartment with bad credit.
Credit checks highlight late payments, collections, or negative marks that raise concerns. Be prepared to explain other factors, such as medical debt, other types of debt, or any one-time financial setbacks, to reduce your risk profile.
See our article on adding a personal statement to your credit report to learn how to explain your situation and give yourself an edge over other tenants.
Even if you have a lower credit score, you can still qualify for an apartment by showing responsibility in other ways.
Many landlords will consider applicants if they offer a higher security deposit or rent upfront. This reduces the landlord’s risk and shows you are serious. Always get a receipt for any deposit or advance payment.
If possible, find a co signer or guarantor with good credit. They share responsibility for the lease, giving landlords more confidence that rent will be paid.
Bring proof of income, such as pay stubs or bank statements. Show that your finances are stable, even if your credit report includes negative marks. Demonstrating past rent payments on time also helps.
For more budgeting support, explore Credit.org’s Financial Education Guides.
A personal touch can help you stand out, even if your credit scores are low.
If you have negative marks from the past, write a brief explanation. Address mistakes honestly and show how you have improved your financial responsibility. Most landlords appreciate transparency.
Strong references can offset a low score. Ask previous landlords, employers, or property managers to vouch for your reliability. Having written references ready when you rent an apartment can speed approval.
Certain mistakes reduce your chances of being approved. Avoid them when applying.
Each application triggers a credit check. Too many inquiries in a short time can lower your score and raise risk concerns.
Always provide the requested form, date, and signature. Missing documents can lead to a denied application, even if your credit score meets the minimum.
Renters who use government subsidies face unique challenges. Some landlords may try to deny applications unfairly. Federal law prohibits housing discrimination based on source of income in many states.
Review your rights at DREDF’s tenant screening resource.
Moving in with bad credit may require extra money. Plan ahead for application fees, deposits, and first month’s rent.
Be ready to pay the first month, a larger security deposit, and possibly extra fees. Bring proof of funds so you can secure approval on the spot. Don't assume lower security deposits will be required, always be prepared for the worst. On the flip side, if you score a reduced security deposit, you'll have extra cash on hand for different kinds of move-in expenses.
If you keep being denied, it may be time for one-on-one support. A housing counselor can help you review your credit, explain renters rights, and prepare stronger applications.
Connect with Rent4Success Rental Counseling at Credit.org for personalized help. If credit repair is part of your journey, combine it with free consumer credit counseling.
