How Long Does it Take to Get Approved for an Apartment?

Renters typically hear back about an apartment approval 1-3 business days after submitting their rental application. Sometimes, an apartment approval can take longer if more information is requested, there are delays in the background and credit check review, or you're applying with roommates or a co-signer. The more renters interested in an apartment can also impact how long you wait for an apartment application approval. We’ll walk you through the rental application process, so you know what to expect at every stage.

Apartment approval process 

When you apply for an apartment, landlords or property managers review various pieces of information to ensure you’re qualified as a tenant. Here are the typical steps involved in the process: 

Submit your application: Up to an hour

Most rental applications require basic information, such as your name, contact info, Social Security number, employment details or other income verification, and rental history. Be sure to disclose other relevant information on your application, such as pet ownership or co-applicants expected to live at the rental property. Completing a rental application can take less than an hour to a few hours, depending on the complexity of the questions and documents you need to include. 

When you submit your application, you may be charged an application fee to cover the cost of background checks. 

Get a background check: Up to 3 days

Landlords or property managers will typically check that you meet their requirements, verify your identity, and that you can cover the rent payments. Depending on their rental application process, this may take a few hours to a few days. When verifying your information, they’ll usually perform the following checks:

• Credit check: Reviews your credit score and payment history to assess financial responsibility. Renters who have made on-time payments can continue to build their credit score through free rent reporting. 
• Background check: Looks for any criminal history or previous evictions. This can also be regulated in certain states and cities as to what information can be considered by a landlord or property management company.
• Employment and income verification: Confirms that your income is sufficient to cover rent. You may be asked to provide pay stubs, tax returns, a job offer letter or other verifiable sources of income. Not sure your income is sufficient to get approved for a specific apartment? Try our Rent Affordability Calculator.
• References: Some applications may ask for references from past landlords or employers. 

The typical median recent renter submitted two applications: one online and one on paper (or in person). For these rental applicants, the typical application fee for applying to the current rental was $50. 

Your application is reviewed: 1 to 3 days

Once the formal checks are done, the landlord or property manager will review the information and make a decision. This step could involve several considerations, including the number of applications they’ve received and their general responsiveness. On average, reviewing your application can take 1–3 days. Some landlords may respond faster, especially if they’re eager to fill the unit.

Wait for an approval notification: 1 to 3 days

After making a decision, the landlord or property manager will contact you to relay whether your application was approved or denied. You could be notified immediately or within 1-3 days of submitting your application. If approved, they’ll provide the next steps, like signing the lease and submitting a security deposit. A recent Zillow housing trends report shows that a typical security deposit, for those who paid one, was $750 in 2024.

What can speed up the rental application process?

The apartment approval process doesn’t have to stretch on for days. Taking proactive steps can help keep things moving quickly and smoothly. 

1. Have your documents ready 

Landlords will likely request specific supporting documentation, such as:

• Proof of income (e.g., recent pay stubs, tax returns, or a letter from your employer). 
• A copy of your ID
• Bank statements 
• References from previous landlords 

Keeping these documents organized and ready to go ensures you can submit your application without delays. 

2. Provide accurate information 

Double-check your application to make sure it’s complete and error-free. Missing information, such as your full legal name or your Social Security Number, can lead to unnecessary back-and-forth and extend the time it takes to get approved for an apartment. 

3. Be responsive 

If the landlord or property manager reaches out for clarification or additional documentation, respond as quickly as possible. Their ability to move forward often hinges on whether they have everything they need from you. 

4. Apply online 

Many property management companies now offer online applications, which can streamline the process significantly, compared to paper forms. If you want to apply to multiple rental properties at once, try Zillow’s application process — you can qualify for all sorts of participating properties with just one application. 

5. Check your credit in advance 

Since your credit score plays a big role, it’s a good idea to check your credit report beforehand. Understand the factors that affect your score and address any potential red flags — like unpaid debts — to make the screening process quicker and improve your chances of approval. Additionally, be sure to remove any credit report freezes prior to submitting your application. Should you need a co-signer for your lease, give them enough notice so that they can assist if necessary.

What can cause delays in the apartment application process? 

Even when you’re prepared, certain factors can slow down the apartment application process. Knowing what to expect can help reduce frustration. 

• Incomplete applications: Missing documents or overlooked sections might mean additional follow-ups from the landlord. 
• High demand: If the apartment you’re applying for is in a competitive market, landlords may wait to review applications until they’ve received several, which can delay your approval for an apartment.
• Slow reference checks: If previous landlords or employers are slow to respond, this can hold up approval. 
• Third-party background screeners: Since most property managers rely on external companies for background checks, processing times may vary depending on the service they use. 
• Holidays or weekends: Applications submitted on a Friday or just before a holiday may take longer to process. 

Be patient and stay in contact

Although waiting for an application approval can be an uneasy time in a renter’s life, it is important to remain patient and cordial with the prospective landlord. If you do not hear a decision following the 72-hour approval window, you may want to send a courtesy follow-up email to the landlord or leasing agent to make sure that they have received all of your necessary documentation. Keep in mind that rental application requirements and  the approval process can vary depending on your local market regulations.