How to Find a Co-Signer for an Apartment

A co-signer is someone who signs the lease with you, taking on the same financial and legal responsibilities. Your co-signer may be a friend or a relative who’s willing to back you up on your tenant obligations. Landlords may require a co-signer on the lease if you have insufficient means to cover income eligibility criteria, a lack of rental history, past evictions or a low credit score. Co-signers for apartments are also common for first-time renters who are starting to build up a rental or credit history. 

If you’re in need of a co-signer, we’re here to help you find a co-signer for your apartment or rental house. We’ll go over each step of the process, including what to look for in a co-signer and alternative solutions if one isn’t readily available. 

1. Show you’re a responsible renter 

Before approaching anyone to co-sign your lease, you need to prove that you’re a tenant worth supporting. Start by presenting a strong case for why you need a co-signer and demonstrating how you’ll meet your rental obligations. 

Here’s how you can show you’re a responsible renter:

• Clearly explain the situation: If your need for a co-signer is due to a lack of credit history or limited income, clarify the circumstances to the person you’re asking. 
• Prepare a budget: Show you’ve carefully accounted for rent and other expenses in your monthly income. 
• Share your rental history (if applicable): Provide references from previous landlords who can vouch for your reliability. 

2. Confirm the requirements

Finding the right co-signer isn’t just about who is willing; it’s about who is capable. You need someone who meets typical landlord requirements and understands the commitment involved (including paying for any damages to the apartment if unpaid). 

Characteristics of a good co-signer 

A good co-signer should have:

• Financial stability with a strong, consistent income. 
• A solid credit score (usually 700 or higher).
• Trustworthiness and clear communication. 
• A willingness to accept financial responsibility for unpaid rent, late fees, or other lease-related charges. 

Must-haves for co-signers 

Keep in mind most landlords require the following from co-signers:

• Must be at least 18 years old. 
• Proof of income (e.g., pay stubs or bank statements). 
• U.S. citizenship or residency documentation. 
• Credit or background checks as part of the landlord’s screening process. 
• Willingness to accept full legal accountability for unpaid rent or damages. 

3. Reach out to family and friends

Family members like parents or siblings are often ideal co-signers. They already have a vested interest in helping you succeed. If that’s not possible, close friends, mentors, or even a trusted advisor may be willing to be a co-signer on your application. 

4. Discuss co-signer responsibilities and risks 

Being a co-signer comes with significant responsibilities. It’s critical to have an open and honest conversation about what they’re agreeing to before they sign anything. 

Here are the essential points to communicate:

• Financial liability: If you miss rent payments, the co-signer is responsible for covering them. They’re also equally responsible for additional charges, such as late fees or damages that are unpaid. 
• Credit impact: If you default on payments or break the lease, it could negatively affect your credit score. 
• Legal obligations: Co-signers share all financial responsibilities outlined in the lease, even if they don’t live in the apartment. 

5. Consider alternative options 

If you’re unable to secure a co-signer, don’t worry! There are other ways to move forward. 

Explore third-party guarantor services 

If you’re unable to find a personal co-signer, some renters explore third-party guarantor services. These are companies that, for a fee, take on the risk of guaranteeing your lease. Note that some landlords may not accept these services or may have a preferred lease guarantor company, so check ahead. 

Find a roommate 

Bringing on a roommate who shares financial and legal responsibility for the rental can remove the need for a co-signer entirely. Plus, splitting rent and utilities can make living expenses more manageable. 

Provide additional references 

Offer letters of recommendation from past landlords or employers who can vouch for your reliability. This could reassure the landlord that you’re a trustworthy tenant. 

Look for private landlords 

Some private landlords may be more flexible than property management companies and willing to negotiate based on your specific circumstances. 

6. Gather your co-signer’s information

Once you’ve secured a co-signer, the next step is to collect the required documents and information for the landlord’s approval. Here’s what you’ll likely need:

• Proof of income: Pay stubs, tax returns, or employer verification. 
• Credit information: They will likely pull a credit report and score. 
• ID and legal documentation: Usually a driver’s license, proof of citizenship or residency status. 
• Signed co-signer agreement: A binding document acknowledging their financial  responsibilities. 

Being prepared and organized will streamline the process and get you one step closer to approval.

7. Submit a rental application 

With your co-signer and their documentation ready, the last step is submitting your rental application. Include all forms filled out correctly, ensuring both you and your co-signer have signed where needed. Double-check deadlines and attach any supporting documents for the landlord’s review.

Need help applying? Save time and streamline your rental process with the Zillow^® online rental application. You can apply online to as many participating rentals as you want in a 30-day period for just $35.

Once you apply, track your application status. If a landlord reaches out with questions, respond promptly to speed up the approval process.

The key to securing a co-signer

Finding a co-signer for an apartment may feel daunting, but with careful planning and the right approach, you may be surprised by who is willing to co-sign. Set yourself up for success by sharing the qualities that make you a reliable and responsible renter. Then confirm that those who are interested in co-signing are financially able and understand their responsibilities.