Documents you need to rent an apartment in Austin

The core checklist

• Photo ID. Most landlords accept a passport. A U.S. driver’s license or state ID works too.
• Social Security number or ITIN. Used for credit and background screening. If you don’t have one yet, ask how the landlord screens applicants without it.
• Proof of income. Your two or three most recent pay stubs, an offer letter, or bank statements.
• Rental history. Your current and previous addresses, with landlord names and contact details.
• A landlord reference. A letter from a previous landlord helps, especially from outside the U.S. Include a translation if it isn’t in English.
• Emergency contact. The name and phone number of someone the landlord can reach.
• Pet records. Vaccination records and a photo, if you have a pet.
• Vehicle details. Make, model, and license plate, if the property assigns parking.

Proof of income, by situation

• Moving for a job: an offer letter on company letterhead with your salary and start date. Some landlords accept it before your first paycheck.
• Self-employed: recent tax returns and several months of bank statements.
• Students: your admission letter and proof of funding, such as a scholarship letter, a sponsor letter, or bank statements.
• Living on savings: bank statements showing enough to cover the lease. Some landlords will ask for rent in advance in this case.

No U.S. credit history yet? Read how to rent in Austin without a U.S. credit history.

Fees and payments to expect

• Application fee, usually per adult, to cover screening. It’s generally not refundable.
• Application or holding deposit, to take the home off the market while your application is reviewed.
• Security deposit, often part or all of one month’s rent. It may be higher if you don’t have U.S. credit.
• First month’s rent, due at or before move-in. If you move in mid-month, it may be prorated.
• Other fees some communities charge, such as administrative, pet, or parking fees.

Ask for the full list of fees in writing before you apply, and pay only through the official portal or leasing office. Many landlords don’t accept cash.

Before you sign the lease

• Read the tenant selection criteria. Texas landlords must make them available with the application.
• Read the whole lease, including the rules on late fees, renewals, and moving out early.
• Ask whether renters insurance is required. Many apartment communities require it, and it usually doesn’t cost much.
• Ask which utilities you need to set up yourself. Inside the City of Austin, electricity usually comes from Austin Energy and water from Austin Water; other cities in the area have their own providers.

After you move in

• Fill out the move-in inspection form and take dated photos of every room.
• Keep copies of your lease, receipts, and every request you send in writing.
• When you move out, give your forwarding address in writing. Texas landlords generally have 30 days from then to return your deposit or explain any deductions.