How to qualify for an apartment when you don’t meet every requirement

How to qualify for an apartment when you don’t meet every requirement

Moving into a new apartment should feel like a fresh start, not a financial interrogation. But for many renters—especially first-timers, freelancers, or international tenants—the rental process can feel more like a math exam than a milestone. You’ve found the place, you’re ready to sign, and then—bam—you’re asked for a guarantor.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.

Many renters hit a wall when it comes to credit history, income verification, or documentation. That’s where guarantors come in—and knowing your options could make the difference between another “Sorry, you didn’t qualify” and “Welcome home.”

What even is a guarantor?

Let’s start with the basics.

A guarantor—also known as a co-signer—is someone who agrees to step in financially if you can’t pay your rent. They’re not moving in with you or joining movie night, but they are legally promising your landlord that the rent will get paid, no matter what.

Traditionally, this person is a parent or relative with a strong financial profile. But don’t worry if you don’t have someone like that—there are alternatives (we’ll get to that).

Zillow breaks it down simply: a co-signer or guarantor is a kind of safety net—especially useful when your own financial history isn’t yet strong enough on paper.

Why do landlords even require one?

Here’s the deal: landlords aren’t trying to make life hard. They’re just trying to reduce risk.

Renting out a unit is a big commitment on their end too. If you have:

• No credit history
• Irregular income (hello, freelancers!)
• A new job
• Student or international status

…then a landlord might feel a little uneasy. A guarantor steps in to calm those nerves.

According to Realtor.com, rental applications today involve thorough credit checks, income verification, and background screenings. Guarantors act as an extra vote of confidence on your behalf.

What do guarantors need to qualify?

Now for the catch: guarantors themselves need to meet some pretty high standards.

Usually that includes:

• Strong credit (700+ is typical)
• Stable income (at least 75–100x your monthly rent per year)
• Legal U.S. residency
• Willingness to provide financial documents

This is why a lot of people can’t—or don’t want to—ask a friend or parent to co-sign. It's a big ask. You're basically saying, “Hey, can you risk your credit score and savings just in case I can’t pay rent?”

It’s a no from Uncle Joe. We get it.

So… what are your options?

If you're sweating right now thinking, “I don’t have someone to ask,” don't panic. You’ve got options.

Third-party guarantor services like Cosign are designed for people just like you.

Instead of relying on a family member or friend, you apply online, share your financial profile, and if approved, Cosign guarantees your lease—giving your landlord the peace of mind they need to say “yes.”

How Cosign works (in plain English)

Let’s walk through the steps:

1. Apply online at rentwithcosign.com
2. Choose your coverage: 3x, 6x, 9x, or 12x monthly rent
3. Pay a one-time fee (usually 40%–110% of one month’s rent)
4. Cosign issues the guarantee to your landlord directly
5. Move in—no awkward calls to Dad or explaining your freelance income to Grandma

This makes Cosign a game-changer for students, gig workers, digital nomads, and anyone whose income doesn’t “fit the mold.”

Who’s this REALLY for?

Cosign was built for renters who are responsible—but not conventionally “qualified.” That includes:

• First-time renters
• International students and expats
• Freelancers, creators, and contract workers
• People starting over (new city, new job, new everything)
• Anyone who's been rejected before

The bottom line? If you can afford rent but can’t prove it on paper the way traditional landlords want, this service has your back.

What’s the catch?

Let’s be clear: having a guarantor (or using a guarantor service) doesn’t let you off the hook. If you miss payments, you’re still liable—and your guarantor (whether it’s Cosign or your cousin) will expect to be repaid.

Cosign, in particular, only works with renters who demonstrate the ability and intent to pay. It’s not a loophole—it’s a partnership.

Don’t have perfect credit? Don’t worry.

Many renters—especially younger ones—don’t have perfect credit. Or maybe you’re building credit slowly, dealing with student loans, or just haven’t had a chance to establish history yet.

That’s why guarantors are so common. In fact, in places like NYC, nearly 30% of renters use guarantors.

As Apartments.com points out, landlords may be more flexible if you’re honest about your situation and proactive with solutions.

Do guarantors affect your lease terms?

Not really.

The rent doesn’t go up, and the lease terms don’t change. Your guarantor’s name may be on a separate document or included in the lease, but your living arrangement stays the same.

The biggest impact? You get approved. That’s it.

Tips to make your rental application shine—even if you need a guarantor

• Be honest. Landlords value transparency.
• Organize documents (proof of income, ID, rental history)
• Show proof of savings if you can
• Include letters of recommendation from employers or previous landlords
• Use Cosign as your backup plan—mention it in your application

This combo helps demonstrate responsibility, even if your credit or income is still in progress.

You’ve got this!

Getting asked for a guarantor isn’t a red flag—it’s a speed bump.

It doesn’t mean you’re not ready to rent. It means you might just need a little extra support getting in the door. And with options like Cosign, you don’t have to rely on anyone else to vouch for you. You can do it on your own terms.

Whether you’re a first-time renter, a side hustler chasing your dream career, or just figuring things out post-grad, Cosign can help you get approved and move forward.

Ready to take the next step? Check out rentwithcosign.com and find your next apartment—no apologies, no explanations, no stress.