Q: What is a credit score, and can I rent in NYC with a low one?
Posted by u/RentReadyNY • 75 minutes ago
I’ve never checked my credit before and just discovered I’m sitting at 635.
Does NYC have a minimum score for leases? If landlords run my report and see low credit, do I have any work‑arounds or should I postpone my move?
Top Answer by Estay
Estay Housing Consultant | Helped 1,500 renters secure apartments despite credit challenges
Yes, you can still rent with less‑than‑perfect credit; you just need the right strategy and supporting paperwork. Here’s the breakdown:
Step 1 – Credit Score Basics
A credit score is a three‑digit number (300–850) that predicts the likelihood you’ll pay bills on time. FICO and VantageScore use payment history, credit utilization, account age, new inquiries, and mix of credit to calculate the figure.
Step 2 – Landlord Score Tiers
Luxury buildings often seek 700+, while walk‑ups and private owners may approve tenants down to 620 if other factors look solid. Scores under 600 generally trigger a guarantor request or higher security deposit.
Step 3 – What Landlords Actually Check
Beyond the number, they scan for late rent, bankruptcies, and open collections. A single missed card payment hurts less than an unresolved judgment. Attach brief explanations for any derogatory marks; context matters.
Step 4 – Low‑Score Solutions
• Use a guarantor earning 80–90× rent (family, friend, or Insurent).
• Offer extra security: two months’ deposit or several months’ prepaid rent.
• Add a co‑tenant with stronger credit to average the score.
• Provide recent on‑time rent receipts or a letter from your current landlord.
Step 5 – Fast Ways to Boost Your Score
Pay down cards to below 30 % utilization, dispute errors on your report, and add positive data using rent‑reporting services like BoomPay. Small improvements (e.g., 635 → 660) can open more inventory within 30–45 days.
✨ Quick Summary
• NYC has no legal minimum score, but 650+ eases approval.
• Landlords care about patterns, not just the number.
• Guarantors, larger deposits, and prepaid rent bridge gaps.
• Start credit cleanup a month before touring.
• Save PDFs of bank statements and payoff receipts to reinforce your application.
Stick to these tactics and you’ll sign a lease—credit curveballs included.
Bonus Tip: If a building allows Rhino or SuretyBonds, you can replace cash deposits with a small monthly fee and keep liquidity for credit payoff.
Pro Tip: Freeze unused credit cards after reducing balances; it prevents hard pulls while you shop for apartments.
Updated weekly • Reflects 2025 NYC credit guidelines