Low Credit Score Approval Tips
Finding an apartment with a 500 credit score can feel like a challenge, but it’s not impossible. Many landlords and property managers use credit scores to assess a tenant’s financial responsibility, but they also consider other factors. With the right approach, you can still secure a great apartment—even with bad credit.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to get approved for an apartment with a low credit score, strategies to boost your application, and alternative rental options.
Why Do Credit Scores Matter When Renting?
Most landlords check your credit score to determine how likely you are to pay rent on time. A high score (700+) reassures landlords, while a low score (below 600) might raise red flags. A 500 credit score typically signals late payments, high debt, or financial struggles in the past.
However, credit isn’t the only factor landlords consider. Many will also look at:
- Your income and job stability
- Rental history (past evictions, late payments, references)
- The amount of your security deposit
- Whether you have a co-signer or guarantor
If your credit score is low, you’ll need to strengthen other parts of your rental application to improve your chances of approval.
7 Ways to Get Approved for an Apartment with a 500 Credit Score
1. Show Proof of Stable Income
Landlords care more about your ability to pay rent than your credit score. If you have a steady job with income 3x the rent, you have a much better chance of approval.
✅ Bring recent pay stubs, bank statements, or tax returns to prove your income.
✅ If you have a side gig or freelance work, include that income as well.
✅ Offer to set up automatic rent payments to reassure the landlord.
2. Offer a Larger Security Deposit or Prepay Rent
A larger deposit can help ease a landlord’s concerns. Instead of the standard one-month deposit, offer to pay two or three months upfront.
✅ Some landlords may allow you to prepay a few months of rent to offset your low credit score.
✅ This shows financial commitment and makes it less risky for the property owner.
3. Get a Co-Signer or Guarantor
If you have a family member or friend with good credit, ask them to co-sign your lease. A co-signer agrees to take financial responsibility if you fail to pay rent.
✅ This significantly increases your chances of approval.
✅ Choose someone with strong credit (700+) and stable income.
✅ If a co-signer isn’t an option, some services (like Insurent or The Guarantors) act as third-party guarantors for renters.
4. Apply for Apartments That Don’t Check Credit
Some landlords—especially independent property owners—do not check credit or focus more on rental history and income.
✅ Look for “no credit check apartments” in your area.
✅ Focus on small landlords, private rentals, and mom-and-pop owners instead of large apartment complexes.
✅ Some websites, like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and local rental listings, are great places to find these options.
5. Provide Strong Rental References
If you’ve paid rent on time in the past, provide proof. A letter of recommendation from a previous landlord can go a long way in convincing a new landlord to take a chance on you.
✅ Request a written reference letter from your previous landlord.
✅ Show proof of on-time payments (bank statements, Venmo receipts, or lease agreements).
✅ If you’re moving for a job, provide an employment verification letter to strengthen your case.
6. Improve Your Credit Before Applying
Even if you’re in a rush, making a few quick credit score improvements can help.
✅ Pay down outstanding debts (especially credit cards with high balances).
✅ Dispute any errors on your credit report (you can get a free report at AnnualCreditReport.com).
✅ Make at least one or two on-time payments before applying for an apartment.
7. Find Apartments That Accept Low Credit Scores
Some apartments specifically work with tenants who have low credit. These properties may charge slightly higher deposits but won’t deny you based on credit alone.
✅ Work with an apartment locator service (like Prestige Realty) to find landlords who accept 500 credit scores.
✅ Search for second-chance apartments in your area.
✅ Check apartment communities that have income-based approval instead of strict credit requirements.
What to Avoid When Renting with a Low Credit Score
🚫 Multiple Applications at Once – Each hard inquiry can lower your credit score further.
🚫 Applying to Credit-Strict Apartments – Some landlords have minimum credit score policies (600+), so focus on flexible options.
🚫 Ignoring Your Credit Score – While you can rent with a 500 credit score, improving your credit will help long-term.
Final Thoughts
Yes, it’s possible to rent an apartment with a 500 credit score! By strengthening other parts of your application—proof of income, rental history, deposits, or a co-signer—you can increase your chances of getting approved.