How to Get an Apartment with Bad Credit

Most landlords run credit checks — but bad credit does not automatically mean rejection. Here are proven strategies to rent an apartment even with a damaged credit history.

What Landlords Actually Look For

Most landlords look at credit scores, eviction history, rental history, income, and criminal background. A low credit score matters less if your income is strong and you have no evictions.

Many private landlords are more flexible than large property management companies. Individual landlords often weigh your story and income more heavily than a credit score algorithm.

Strategies That Work

Offer a larger security deposit. Two or three months deposit instead of one reduces the landlord's risk and often overcomes credit concerns.

Get a co-signer. A family member or friend with good credit who co-signs your lease gives the landlord confidence.

Show strong income. Proof of stable income — ideally 3x the monthly rent — can outweigh a low credit score for many landlords.

Provide references. A letter from a previous landlord confirming you paid on time is powerful evidence that your credit score does not tell the whole story.

Be upfront. Explain your situation before the landlord runs your credit. A proactive, honest explanation goes further than letting them be surprised.

Use RentReporters. Sign up at RentReporters to add your rent payment history to your credit report — boosting your score while you look for a new apartment.

The best long-term solution is fixing your credit. CreditGM offers a free analysis and can help you improve your score so future rental applications are easier.