✍️ Tenant Screening Authorization Form

FCRA-Compliant Authorization for Credit, Criminal, and Background Checks

✅ FCRA Compliant 📋 All 50 States 📄 Instant PDF
📋 Required Before Running Any Tenant Screening

The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requires landlords to obtain written authorization before pulling credit reports, criminal background checks, or other consumer reports. This comprehensive form covers all screening types and protects both landlords and applicants.

🏠 Property Information

🏢 Landlord / Property Manager Information

👤 Applicant Information

Required for credit and background checks

📍 Current Address

📞 Contact Information

🔍 Screening Authorizations

Select all screening types you authorize the landlord/property manager to conduct:

📊 Reports & Records Authorized

Credit Report & Score Credit history, payment records, outstanding debts, bankruptcies
Criminal Background Check Felony and misdemeanor records, court records
Eviction History Prior eviction filings, judgments, and unlawful detainer records
Employment Verification Current and past employment, income verification
Rental History Verification Contact previous landlords for payment and tenancy information
Identity Verification SSN validation, address history, identity confirmation
Sex Offender Registry National and state sex offender registry search
Terrorist Watch List OFAC, FBI, and other federal watch lists

⚖️ FCRA Disclosure & Consumer Rights

📜 Disclosure Pursuant to the Fair Credit Reporting Act (15 U.S.C. § 1681)

In connection with your application for housing, the landlord/property manager may obtain one or more consumer reports about you from a consumer reporting agency. These reports may include information about your credit history, criminal background, eviction history, and other information relevant to your rental application.

Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, you have the right to:

  • Request disclosure of the nature and scope of any investigation
  • Receive a copy of your consumer report upon request
  • Dispute inaccurate or incomplete information in your report
  • Receive notice if information in your report is used against you
  • Know the name, address, and phone number of the consumer reporting agency

If any adverse action is taken based on information in a consumer report, you will be provided with the name and address of the consumer reporting agency that provided the report.

✅ Authorization & Consent

📝 Please Read and Acknowledge

AUTHORIZATION: I hereby authorize the landlord, property manager, or their authorized agent named above, and any consumer reporting agency they engage, to obtain consumer reports and/or investigative consumer reports about me. This authorization includes obtaining information from any source, including but not limited to:

  • Credit bureaus and credit reporting agencies
  • Criminal records databases and court records
  • Eviction records and housing court databases
  • Current and former employers
  • Current and former landlords or property managers
  • Personal and professional references
  • Educational institutions
  • Government agencies and public records

CERTIFICATION: I certify that all information provided in this application and authorization form is true, complete, and accurate to the best of my knowledge. I understand that any false statements or omissions may result in denial of my rental application or termination of any resulting lease agreement.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT: I acknowledge that I have received the FCRA disclosure above and understand my rights under federal and state law regarding consumer reports and background checks.

RELEASE: I release and hold harmless the landlord, property manager, consumer reporting agencies, and all persons or entities providing information pursuant to this authorization from any liability arising from the collection, disclosure, or use of information obtained in connection with this rental application.

DURATION: This authorization shall remain valid for 2025 and for a period of two (2) years from the date of signature, or until I provide written revocation, whichever occurs first. This authorization may be used to obtain reports during the application process and, if I become a tenant, for any legitimate purpose during my tenancy including lease renewals.

✅

Your Information Is Protected: Consumer reporting agencies are required by law to maintain strict confidentiality procedures. Your personal information will only be used for the purpose of evaluating your rental application.

✍️ Applicant Signature

Applicant Signature & Acknowledgment

Applicant Signature
Date Signed
⚠️

Important: This authorization must be signed by the applicant. Electronic signatures are generally accepted, but some jurisdictions may require a handwritten signature. Print this form and sign it if required.

📋 What Is a Tenant Screening Authorization Form?

A Tenant Screening Authorization Form is a legal document that grants landlords and property managers permission to conduct background checks on rental applicants. Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), landlords must obtain written consent before pulling credit reports, criminal records, eviction history, or other consumer reports.

This authorization protects both parties: it ensures landlords have legal permission to access sensitive information, and it informs applicants of their rights under federal law. Without proper authorization, landlords could face legal liability for improperly accessing consumer reports.

🔒 For Landlords

Provides legal protection and FCRA compliance when conducting tenant screening. Documents that proper consent was obtained before accessing consumer reports.

👤 For Applicants

Ensures transparency about what information will be accessed. Provides documentation of rights and how to dispute inaccurate information.

⚖️ Why FCRA Compliance Matters

The Fair Credit Reporting Act is a federal law that regulates how consumer information can be collected and used. For landlords, this means:

  • Written consent is required before obtaining any consumer report (credit, criminal, eviction, etc.)
  • Applicants must be informed that a consumer report may be obtained
  • Adverse action notices must be provided if you deny based on report information
  • Applicants have the right to know which agency provided the report
  • Dispute procedures must be available to challenge inaccurate information

Violations of FCRA can result in statutory damages of $100-$1,000 per violation, plus actual damages, punitive damages, and attorney’s fees. Using a proper authorization form is essential protection.

🔍 What Does This Authorization Cover?

A comprehensive tenant screening authorization should cover all types of reports and verifications a landlord might need:

Screening Type What It Reveals Why It Matters
💳 Credit Report Payment history, debts, bankruptcies, collections Indicates financial responsibility and ability to pay rent
🏛️ Criminal Background Felony and misdemeanor convictions Identifies potential safety concerns
🏠 Eviction History Prior evictions, landlord lawsuits Best predictor of future eviction risk
💼 Employment Job status, income, tenure Confirms ability to afford rent
📞 Rental References Payment history, lease compliance Direct feedback from previous landlords
🔐 Identity Verification SSN validation, address history Prevents fraud and identity theft

For detailed guidance on evaluating credit reports, see our comprehensive guide: How to Evaluate Renters Credit. For background check interpretation, see: Tenant Background Check Guide.

📝 How to Use This Form

Step 1: Provide to All Applicants

Give this authorization form to every applicant along with your rental application. Requiring authorization from all applicants ensures consistent treatment and fair housing compliance.

Step 2: Collect Completed Forms

Ensure the applicant has filled in all required information, especially their Social Security Number (required for credit checks), date of birth, and current address. Verify the form is signed and dated.

Step 3: Run Screening

With the signed authorization, you can now legally obtain consumer reports. Use a reputable screening service that provides comprehensive reports. See our screening packages for options.

Step 4: Provide Required Notices

If you deny the application based wholly or partly on information in a consumer report, you must provide an adverse action notice. Use our Tenant Rejection Letter template.

Step 5: Retain Records

Keep signed authorization forms on file for at least 2 years after the tenancy ends. These documents protect you if questions arise about your screening practices.

🏠 State-Specific Considerations

While the FCRA is federal law, many states have additional requirements for tenant screening:

🌴 California

Application fees capped. Must provide receipt. Additional disclosures required for certain screening criteria.

🗽 New York

Fair Chance Act limits when criminal history can be considered. Additional tenant protections in NYC.

🌲 Washington

Seattle requires “first-in-time” rule. Screening criteria disclosure required before application.

🌳 Oregon

Screening fees regulated. Must provide copy of screening criteria. Additional Portland requirements.

For state-specific forms and requirements, see our state landlord form collections:

🌴 California Forms 🗽 New York Forms ⛳ Texas Forms 🏖️ Florida Forms 🏙️ Illinois Forms 🏔️ Colorado Forms

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is this authorization form required by law?

Yes. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requires written authorization before obtaining any consumer report, including credit reports, criminal background checks, and eviction history searches. Operating without proper authorization can result in significant legal liability.

Can I use one authorization for multiple screening types?

Yes. This comprehensive form authorizes all common screening types in one document. The applicant can see exactly what will be checked, and you have authorization for your complete screening process.

How long is this authorization valid?

This authorization remains valid for two years from the date of signature, which covers the application period and any subsequent lease renewals. For new applications after this period, obtain a new authorization.

Can applicants refuse to sign?

Yes, applicants can refuse. However, without authorization, you cannot legally conduct screening. Most landlords make screening authorization a requirement for application consideration. You should inform applicants upfront that authorization is required.

What if an applicant disputes their screening results?

Under FCRA, applicants have the right to dispute inaccurate information directly with the consumer reporting agency. You should provide them with the agency’s contact information as part of any adverse action notice.

Do I need separate authorization for co-applicants?

Yes. Each adult applicant must sign their own authorization form. You cannot screen someone based on another person’s consent. If a couple is applying together, both must complete and sign separate forms.

Can I charge a fee for running the screening?

In most states, yes—you can charge a reasonable fee to cover actual screening costs. However, some states (like California) cap fees and require specific disclosures. Check your state’s regulations.

🔗 Related Forms & Resources

📝 Rental Application 💳 Credit Check Consent 🔍 Criminal Check Consent 📊 Background Check Guide 💰 Credit Evaluation Guide ✉️ Rejection Letter 🏠 Landlord Reference 💼 Employment Verification 📋 Screening Packages

⚠️ Legal Disclaimer

This tenant screening authorization form is provided for informational purposes to assist landlords with FCRA-compliant tenant screening. While designed to meet federal requirements, state and local laws vary and may impose additional requirements. This form does not constitute legal advice. Consult with a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction to ensure your screening practices comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including fair housing regulations.