Security check without SS#

[S2000]

I would love to move to a system like Transunion's Smartmove where it does as you say keep important info private and puts the tenant in better control of their data but the problem is 90% of the renters are not that smart to try that system. I have over the years incorporated more automation and use of the "internet of things" to replace a lot of manual processes in everyday landlording but it has to be done in baby steps. As a landlord if a tenant comes to me requesting the use of Smartmove I would jump at the chance! Why? Because it does not cost me a cent and its easy enough to log on and review the criteria I have for a certain apartment.

Typically they balk at the $20 application fee not realizing it costs me much more to run all those checks and the time it takes to perform these checks. Many are actually astonished that we run the checks that we do. I guess I will have to put blame on many other landlords who rent out with money given and a handshake.

[MrRational]

Originally Posted by thesefourwalls

May I ask a question of the landlords (and employers ftm) here?
May we as prospective renters have a copy of your driver license, ss card, pay stubs,
banks statements for all your accounts including all checking and savings..... etc

You're welcome to ASK for these documents.

And if you don't get what you consider a reasonable response...
you are welcome to reject them as a potential landlord (or employer ftm).

But the actually pertinent data you SHOULD be investigating is mostly public record.
You have the advantage of a known fixed address that can be searched on the State tax rolls
and both individual and business names you can search in the Court records (and similar)...
with a nearly 100% certainty that what you find is accurate.

[spankys bbq]

You're welcome to ask, and I am free to decline. If you're that bothered by the idea of giving a prospective landlord your personal information, you should go buy your own house. I'm not trying to be snippy or mean, but when you have a substantial amount of money at stake, just an "I'm a good guy, I promise" ain't going to get it. Social Security numbers are also used to protect prospective tenants from identity theft among other things. I've had several instances where I've run a background and had a SSN match and all kinds of fraudulent activity showed up. I've also caught people using other people's SSN while applying. The current system works, but it isn't perfect. Some things could be changed, but don't hold your breath.