Can You Get An Apartment While Working Under The Table?

For many, the appeal of working under the table often revolves around tax advantages or flexible work arrangements. Yet, when it comes to personal financial decisions, such as renting an apartment, complications can arise. Your income might not be documented in the usual way, which can pose challenges for potential landlords evaluating your application. But is it impossible? Let’s explore the possibilities, the obstacles, and your rights.

Why Traditional Methods May Not Work

The process of renting an apartment generally requires potential tenants to demonstrate their financial stability. This often entails presenting recent pay stubs, tax returns, or employment letters. When your income isn’t traditionally documented, such evidence becomes scarce.

• Lack of Trust: Without concrete proof of steady income, landlords might perceive you as a financial risk. They want assurances that they’ll receive their rent on time.
• Credit Check Hurdles: Landlords often require credit checks. If you’ve been working under the table and haven’t been engaging in regular financial activities like paying bills or loans through a bank, your credit score could be nonexistent or low.
• Alternative Paths to Securing an Apartment
• While challenges exist, there are alternative avenues to prove your financial capability:
• Offer a Higher Deposit: By offering a larger security deposit, you’re giving the landlord a safety net. It can make them more inclined to rent to you despite unconventional income proof.
• Provide References: Personal and professional references, especially from previous landlords, can vouch for your reliability and character. This can often alleviate potential concerns.
• Consider a Co-signer: If you have a trusted individual with a stable income and good credit, they could co-sign the lease for you. This offers landlords an additional layer of security.

Know Your Rights

When apartment hunting while working off the books, it’s crucial to be aware of your rights. Discrimination based on source of income is illegal in many jurisdictions. However, note that “source of income” typically refers to legal sources like disability payments, child support, etc. This might not cover money earned from under-the-table jobs.

• Fair Housing Act: This federal law prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability. While it doesn’t directly address income source discrimination, it ensures you are not discriminated against for other reasons.
• State and Local Laws: Many states and local jurisdictions have added “source of income” to their list of protected classes. Always check local regulations to determine your rights.
• Document Everything: When apartment hunting, keep records of all communications. If you feel you’ve been unjustly denied due to discrimination, these records can be crucial.

Stay Informed

While working under the table offers some benefits, it can also lead to complications in personal financial endeavors like renting an apartment. If you find yourself in this position, take proactive measures. Offer additional proofs of reliability, consider alternative verification methods, and always stay informed about your rights.

Remember, each landlord and property manager is different. While some might be apprehensive about unconventional income sources, others might be more understanding. Stay persistent, stay informed, and you’ll find the right place to call home.