Can you rent an apartment without a bank account?
Andrew Campbell
Updated on February 13, 2026
Most apartment complexes and management companies require a credit check. However, some individual owners will let you rent without established credit. Generally, these landlords will still ask you to prove income stability.
Can you rent an apartment without a visa?
Fortunately, there are no specific documents needed to rent in the U.S. if you are not a citizen. In most cases, you will have to demonstrate that you have the financial means to pay the rent and undergo credit and criminal background checks.
How do I go about getting my first apartment?
How to Get Your First Apartment
- Determine What You Can Pay.
- Find Where You Want to Live.
- Decide Whether You Want a Roommate.
- Gather Solid References.
- Look at 5 Properties.
- Clarify the Cost of Utilities.
- Take Your Time to Make a Decision.
- Submit the Application.
Can immigrants rent an apartment?
The short answer is no. The federal government has almost exclusive authority to address immigration, including undocumented immigration. Currently, there is no federal law which prevents or penalizes landlords from renting to undocumented persons.
How to rent an apartment without a credit card or bank account?
Explain to the landlord that you do not have a bank account or credit card, and the reason why, if possible. This situation is unusual but not unheard of in the rental business. The landlord will want to know how you expect to pay; you can suggest money orders or cash. Look for apartments that do not require a credit check.
What should my income be to get an apartment without credit?
If you don’t have an established credit history, you may be approved if your income is stable and will adequately cover the rent. It’s generally recommended that you keep rent expenses to less than one-third of your take-home pay, so if you make $3,000 a month, you’ll want to look at apartments with a monthly rent of less than $1,000.
Can you pay rent with a debit card?
Alternatively, if you have a rewards-earning debit card, you should consider that, too. Some of the sites offer lower fees for debit transactions, and Venmo doesn’t charge any debit card fees at all. Note that some vendors may process credit card rent payments as cash advances — which is not what you want.
Can a credit card stop you from renting?
(Getty Images) If you are about to embark on an apartment-hunting journey, don’t let your credit card debt stop you from renting the place you want. You’ll have to be financially attractive to the leasing agent, and out-of-control credit card debt can suggest you won’t be able to keep up with rent payments.
