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Checklist · United States

Documents to rent a home in the US

What US landlords commonly ask applicants for, how to send it safely, and what you shouldn’t have to hand over, with New York rules where they differ.

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Commonly asked for

How to use this checklist

Gather these before you start viewing homes, so you can apply the same day you find one you like. Not every landlord asks for everything: follow what the landlord asks for, and ask what their criteria are (for example, the income they expect compared with the rent) before you pay any fee.

Send less, and cover what isn't needed

A landlord needs to see your name, your employer or income source, the pay period and the amount. They don't need your account numbers, your full spending history or your Social Security number on a pay stub. Cover them with a black box before you upload, and never send ID or bank documents to someone you haven't confirmed is the owner or the owner's agent; see rental scam red flags.

Renting in New York City? The NYC rental application documents guide covers the city's extra rules.

Local rules we checked

Rules change and local laws can add more. Follow the source link before you rely on one.

  • United States

    The federal Fair Housing Act bars discrimination in renting because of race, color, religion, sex, familial status, national origin or disability, including in notices and statements about a rental.

    Source
  • New York

    The only application fee allowed is for a background or credit check, capped at the actual cost or $20, and waived if you bring a check from the last 30 days.

    Source
  • New York City

    Immigration or citizenship status, lawful source of income and the presence of children are protected in housing, and criminal history can be checked only after a written conditional offer.

    Source
Fact-checked October 24, 2026

The document list is common practice, not a legal requirement; landlords set their own criteria. Federal, NY and NYC rules checked against statute text and the CCHR pages.

Sources

  1. 42 U.S.C. § 3604: Discrimination in the sale or rental of housing · Legal Information Institute (accessed October 24, 2026)
  2. Real Property Law § 238-a · New York State Senate (accessed October 12, 2026)
  3. The Law (NYC Human Rights Law protected classes) · NYC Commission on Human Rights (accessed October 24, 2026)
  4. Fair Chance Act in Housing · NYC Commission on Human Rights (accessed October 12, 2026)

General information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules change; confirm with the agency or a professional before you act.