Documents to have ready before you apply
Re-rentals move fast. Have your paperwork ready before one posts.
Re-rentals move fast. When you're selected from the applicant pool, the marketing agent will ask for paperwork, and slow responses can cost you the unit. Having these ready before you apply puts you ahead.
Identity (for every adult in the household)
- Government-issued photo ID (driver's license, non-driver ID, passport)
- Social Security cards or ITIN documentation for each household member
Income (usually the last 4 to 6 pay stubs per earner, plus)
- Recent pay stubs for everyone who works
- Last year's federal tax return (and state return, if you file one)
- If self-employed: profit-and-loss statements and the last two years of tax returns
- Benefit letters: Social Security, SSI/SSD, pension, unemployment, child support, anything regular
- Bank statements (often the last 2 to 6 months)
Household
- Birth certificates for children
- Proof of current address (utility bill, lease, or official mail)
- If applicable: custody agreements, marriage certificate
Practical tips
- Scan everything now. Keep clear phone photos or scans in one folder so you can attach them the same day you're asked.
- Names must match. If your ID says one name and your pay stub says another (marriage, divorce, typo), sort it out in advance or have documentation explaining it.
- Don't guess on income. Report it honestly and completely. Agents verify with employers and the IRS; discrepancies can disqualify you.
- Never pay anyone for "help" with documents or to "guarantee" selection. That's a scam. See our guide on recognizing housing scams.
Last reviewed: 2026-09-28. Each building's marketing agent sets the exact document list. Follow the instructions on the official listing.
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Frequently asked questions
What documents do I need for an affordable housing application?
Government photo ID for every adult, Social Security cards or ITIN documentation, recent pay stubs, last year's tax return, benefit letters, bank statements, birth certificates for children, and proof of your current address.
How many pay stubs do I need?
Usually the last 4 to 6 pay stubs per earner, plus the other items on the checklist. Each building's marketing agent sets the exact list.
What if my name differs across documents?
Sort it out in advance or have documentation explaining it. Names must match across your ID, pay stubs, and tax return.
Should I report all of my income?
Yes, honestly and completely. Agents verify with employers and the IRS, and discrepancies can disqualify you.