A rental application helps landlords compare applicants consistently. Use the same application and criteria for everyone to stay within fair housing laws.
Free Rental Application template
Fill in the blanks: the document updates as you type. Nothing you enter leaves your browser.
Rental Application
Property: ____ Landlord: ____ Application fee: $____ (if any, as permitted by law)
Applicant
Full name: __ Date of birth: __
Phone: __ Email: __
Current residence
Address: ____
Monthly rent: $____ Moved in: __ Landlord name & phone: __
Reason for leaving: ____
Previous residence
Address: ____
Dates: __ to __ Landlord name & phone: __
Employment and income
Employer: __ Position: __
Start date: __ Monthly income: $____ Other income: $____
Other occupants
Names and ages of everyone who will live in the unit: __
Pets (type, breed, weight): __ Vehicles: __
References
- __ Phone: __
- __ Phone: __
Authorization
I certify the information above is true and complete. I authorize the landlord to verify it, including contacting employers and landlords and obtaining a credit and background report, as permitted by law.
Applicant: __ Date: __
This free template is general information, not legal advice, and may not suit your state or situation. Some documents must be signed before witnesses or a notary. For anything important, have a lawyer review it.
Fair housing basics
Federal law prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status and disability, and many states and cities add more protected classes (such as source of income). Don’t ask questions that target protected characteristics.
Application fees and screening
Some states cap application fees or require refunds if no screening is done. Credit and background checks require the applicant’s written authorization: included in this form. If you deny an application based on a credit report, federal law requires an adverse action notice.
Next step
Approved? Use our residential lease or month-to-month agreement.
Frequently asked questions
Can a landlord charge an application fee?
Usually, but some states cap the amount or limit when it can be charged.
Questions from readers
Question about the Rental Application? Ask it here. We answer common questions in general terms on this page. This is not legal advice.
