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How to verify your identity

What you'll do for the identity verification step — uploading your ID and (when included) completing a video verification.

Rent Butter screens applicants in part by verifying who you are. Here's what you'll do for the identity verification step.

Why we verify your ID

We verify your ID to confirm you are who you say you are. It's a standard part of rental screening — it helps prevent anyone from applying in your name without your knowledge, and ensures the criminal and credit checks we run are tied to the right person.

What you'll do

  1. Choose your ID type — driver's license, state ID card, or U.S. passport

  2. Take or upload a photo of the front of your ID (and the back if it has one)

  3. Take a quick live picture (also called a selfie) — when your property includes this step

What you'll need

  • A government-issued photo ID — driver's license, state ID card, or U.S. passport

  • A device with a working camera (your phone is easiest)

  • Good lighting

Tips

  • Take the photo on a flat surface, not held up at an angle

  • Make sure all four corners of your ID are visible

  • Avoid glare from windows, lamps, or your phone screen

If your photo isn't accepted on the first try, you can retake it. After 3 attempts, you can tap Verify ID Later to keep moving through your application and complete this step afterward.

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