Being prepared with documentation can make the difference between securing an apartment and missing out. Most landlords and management companies will require:

• Government-issued photo ID
• Recent pay stubs
• Employment verification letter
• Recent tax returns or W-2s
• Bank statements
• Credit check/authorization

A common guideline is that tenants should combine to earn approximately 40x the monthly rent in gross annual income.

For Example:  $3,000/month apartment would typically require an income of $120,000 per year.

If you don’t fully meet income or credit criteria, a lease guarantor helps strengthen your application and significantly improves your chances of securing the apartment.

What Are the Requirements for a Guarantor?

In NYC, guarantors are usually held to a higher financial standard than tenants.

Typical requirements include:

• Income: Often 80x the monthly rent annually
  
  • Example: $3,000/month apartment → $240,000/year gross income
• Strong credit history: Good to excellent credit score
• Stable financial profile: Proof of steady income and assets
• U.S.-based guarantor: Many landlords require the guarantor to reside in the United States