Getting denied for an apartment because of bad credit is tough. Studies show that nearly 1 in 4 renters get rejected due to credit issues. But here's the good news: a low credit score doesn't have to be a deal-breaker. With the right strategies, you can still find an apartment and start building a better financial future.
What Credit Score Do Landlords Look For?
Most landlords check your credit score before approving your application. Typically, they want to see a score of 650 or higher, though this varies. Some landlords are flexible, especially if you show other positive signs like steady income or a co-signer.
Understanding credit score ranges helps you know where you stand. If your score is lower than expected, don't panic. There are concrete steps you can take right now.
8 Ways to Get Approved With Bad Credit
Here are proven strategies to improve your chances of rental approval:
1. Find a co-signer — A co-signer with good credit essentially vouches for you. This shows the landlord that someone responsible will back up your lease. Your co-signer doesn't have to live with you, but they do agree to pay rent if you can't.
2. Offer a larger security deposit — Most landlords accept a higher upfront deposit as proof you're serious and financially committed. This reduces their risk if something goes wrong. Check your state's laws on security deposit limits first.
3. Provide proof of income — Show recent pay stubs or tax returns proving you can afford the rent. Landlords care most about whether you can actually pay month to month. Stable income is sometimes more important than a perfect credit score.
4. Write a cover letter — A personal letter explaining your credit situation and what you've done to improve goes a long way. Be honest. If you've had medical bills or job loss in the past, explain it. Show you've learned and moved forward.
5. Get a rental history letter — Ask your current or previous landlord for a reference letter. Proof that you've paid rent on time in the past is incredibly powerful, even if your credit score is low.
6. Check for and dispute credit errors — Errors happen. You might have accounts you never opened or payments marked late that you actually made on time. Use our guide on how to dispute credit report errors to clean up your report before applying.
7. Show proof of recent improvements — If you've been working to rebuild your credit, provide evidence. This could be proof that you paid off collections or had a judgment satisfied. Landlords respect progress.
8. Search for landlords who work with bad credit — Some landlords and property management companies specifically work with renters rebuilding credit. They may charge more in fees or require larger deposits, but they're willing to take the chance.
How Rent Reporting Can Help Your Credit
One of the best-kept secrets is rent reporting. When you pay your rent on time, that payment can now be reported to credit bureaus—just like credit card payments or loan payments. This helps build your credit score over time.
Self reports rent to all three bureaus through its rent reporting program. Piñata also reports rent and rewards you with points for paying on time. Kikoff now includes rent reporting as part of its $0/month credit account — read our Kikoff review for details.
See our full list of rent reporting services for more options. The sooner you start, the sooner you'll see improvement.
Kikoff Credit Account
Kikoff Credit Account
Everything you need to build your credit, right in one app. Build credit, lower debt, and unlock progress with tools that actually work.
Loan Amount
$750-$3,500 depends on the plan
Term
12 months
APR
0%
Admin Fee
$0
Monthly Fee
$5/month for Basic plan, $20/mo for Premium plan $35/mo for Ultimate plan
Credit Check
No
Average Score Increase
An avg increase of +86 points within a year with on-time payments
Ava Credit Builder Card
Ava Credit Builder Card
Ava gives you access to a suite of credit-building products including Credit Builder Card, Credit Builder Loan, and Rent Reporting. 74% of members seeing an increase in score in the first week.
Fee
$8/mo (annual) or $10/mo (monthly)
APR
0%
Minimum Deposit Amount
$0
Credit Check
No
Cashback
None
Benefit
Ava reports account activity weekly to all three major credit bureaus: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion
Should You Offer a Larger Security Deposit?
Yes, if you can afford it. A larger security deposit signals trust and reduces the landlord's risk. Some renters have gotten approved with bad credit specifically because they offered extra upfront. Just remember: security deposits are meant to be returned, so don't offer more than you can lose.
Before agreeing, check your state's laws on security deposit caps. Some states limit how much landlords can ask for. You want to be smart about protecting yourself too.
What to Do If You Get Denied
Rejection stings, but it's not the end. Ask the landlord why you were denied. If it's due to inaccurate credit information, you have rights. Remove collections and other negative items from your report. You can also consider working with a credit repair service like Dovly or Lexington Law to challenge inaccurate marks. Read our Dovly review and Lexington Law review to compare options.
Keep applying to other properties. Different landlords have different standards. Some focus on income rather than credit. Keep looking until you find one willing to work with you.
FAQ
Can I get an apartment with a 500 credit score? — It's harder but possible. You'll likely need a co-signer, larger security deposit, or both. Some landlords also require proof of income or a guarantee letter.
How much should I offer as an extra security deposit? — A good starting point is one extra month of rent. Some renters offer two months extra. The more you offer, the more attractive you become to landlords.
How long does rent reporting take to improve credit? — You can start seeing improvements in 2-3 months of on-time payments with services like Self or Kikoff. Most renters see meaningful score increases within 6-12 months of consistent reporting.
Should I use a credit repair company? — Credit repair companies can help dispute credit report errors, but you can also do this yourself for free. Only use legitimate companies.
What if my landlord won't budge on credit score requirements? — Move on to the next property. Thousands of landlords are more flexible. You'll find someone willing to work with you.
How do I know what my credit score is? — You can check your credit score for free through several legitimate services. Check regularly as you work to improve it.
