Rental scams
Is it safe to send a copy of my ID or Social Security number to a landlord?
Updated By the Housing Rocket moderators
Short answer
Only to a landlord or management company you've verified, and only when you apply after seeing the unit. Your full Social Security number, date of birth and a photo ID together are exactly what an identity thief needs. Many landlords do need them for credit and background checks, so the real question is who is asking, when, and how.
A legitimate application usually goes through a screening service or the management company's own portal, which checks your credit with your consent. A scammer asks for a photo of your driver's license and your SSN over Messenger or email, often before any viewing, sometimes "to prove you're serious".
Safer ways to share:
- Enter your details directly into a screening service or portal you reached from the company's own website.
- Ask whether they accept a screening report you order yourself and share with them.
- If you must send a photo of your ID, write a visible note across it with the address and "for rental application only".
- Never send your SSN in a chat message or text.
Renters without an SSN have other options, covered in international renters.
Want the whole picture? Read How To Avoid Housing Scams.