Skip to main content

Applying With No Income

This article explains the options available to applicants who do not currently have income, including using savings or adding a guarantor.

Written by Georges B.

Not having a paycheck does not mean you cannot apply. There are a few routes available, and you can use more than one at the same time.

Option 1: Qualify Using Savings, Investments, or Retirement

If you have money set aside, you can apply based on what you hold rather than what you earn. This is common for retirees, people between jobs, and applicants living off savings.

This route covers:

  • Bank or savings accounts

  • Brokerage or investment accounts

  • A pension

  • 401(k) or IRA withdrawals

Provide recent statements for the accounts you are using, or connect your bank account instead of uploading. Full details are in Using Assets for Income Verification.

In the app, choose “No income, relying on assets” from the income selection screen.

If your money comes from a formal trust or an estate rather than your own savings, choose “Trust fund” instead.

Option 2: Add a Guarantor

A guarantor does not live in the property but agrees to cover rent if you cannot. Their income is reviewed in place of yours.

Not every property accepts guarantors, so check with your leasing agent first. See Guarantors & Co-Applicants for how this works.

Option 3: Add a Co-Applicant

If someone will be living with you, they can apply alongside you and their income is considered too. Speak to your leasing agent about adding them to the application.

Option 4: Income You May Not Have Considered

Some applicants select “no income” when they do in fact have something we can use. You can select more than one income type, so it is worth checking whether any of these apply to you:

  • Social Security, disability, or survivor benefits

  • VA or other veteran benefits

  • Welfare, cash assistance, or unemployment benefits

  • Child support or spousal support

  • A housing voucher or rental assistance

  • Gig or freelance work

  • A school stipend or financial aid

  • A job you are starting soon, with an offer letter

  • Other regular income such as royalties, dividends, or rental income

Most of these have their own guide in this Help Center.

What Still Needs to Be Completed

Even if you are not providing income documents, you will still be asked to complete the other steps shown in your application, such as identity verification. Log in and follow the prompts to finish them.

Need Help?

If you are not sure which option fits your situation, contact your leasing agent, or email us at applicant.support@twodots.net.

Did this answer your question?