Guarantor Requirements in Boston

Boston landlords typically require tenants to show annual income equal to about 3x the monthly rent, along with a minimum credit score. If you are a college student, starting a new job, or do not meet the income or credit requirements on your own, you may need a guarantor.

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What Is a Guarantor?

A guarantor (sometimes called a co-signer) is someone who agrees to take financial responsibility for the lease if the tenant cannot pay. They typically sign a guarantor agreement alongside the lease, which makes them legally responsible for the rent and any unpaid obligations.

For Potential Guarantors
If the tenant fails to pay rent or breaks the lease, the landlord can pursue the guarantor for the full amount owed. Only agree if you trust the tenant and are comfortable taking on that potential liability.

When Is a Guarantor Required?

You typically need a guarantor if you:

Below income requirements
Many landlords expect annual income equal to at least three times the monthly rent.
Student Status
Students often have limited or no independent income.
New job
If you recently started working, you may not have enough pay stubs yet.
Have poor credit
Landlords may require a guarantor if your score falls below their screening threshold.
Self-employed
Income irregular or difficult to verify income could also lead landlords to request a guarantor.

What Does a Guarantor Need?

High Income

3x - 5x Rent

Most landlords expect guarantors to earn at least three times the monthly rent, and sometimes four to five times the rent, since they are guaranteeing another person’s lease.

Credit Score

700+ Preferred

A strong credit profile is essential. A score of 700 or higher is commonly preferred, though exact thresholds vary by landlord or property manager.

Employment

Verifiable

Guarantors usually need verifiable income from an employer or consistent documented earnings. They must provide pay stubs or offer letters to prove stability.

Location

U.S. Based

Some landlords require guarantors to be based in the United States, while others accept out-of-state or international guarantors depending on the situation.

Documents the Guarantor Needs

Government-issued ID
Social Security number or ITIN
Credit check authorization
Proof of income (pay stubs or offer letter)
Recent tax return (especially if self-employed)

Who Can Be a Guarantor?

A guarantor is typically someone with strong financial stability who is willing to take legal responsibility for the lease if the tenant cannot pay. Common guarantors include:

Parents — The most common option for students and young professionals.
Other family members — Grandparents, siblings, aunts, or uncles with stable income and good credit.
Employers — In some cases, companies may guarantee housing for employees relocating for work.
Close family friends — Occasionally used if they trust the tenant and are comfortable taking on the financial responsibility.

Not every landlord accepts every type of guarantor, so it is important to confirm their requirements before applying.

What If You Don't Have a Guarantor?

Not everyone has family or friends who can co-sign a lease. If you cannot provide a guarantor, there are a few alternatives landlords may consider.

Alternatives to a Personal Guarantor

Guarantor services

Companies such as The Guarantors and Leap can act as a professional guarantor for a fee. Typical cost is about 5–10% of the annual rent, usually paid upfront.

Prepaying rent

Some landlords will accept several months of rent paid in advance instead of a guarantor. Always get the agreement in writing before sending payment.

Finding a stronger co-applicant

If a roommate meets the income and credit requirements on their own, landlords may be more comfortable approving the lease.

Working with smaller landlords

Individual property owners sometimes have more flexibility than large management companies and may consider alternative documentation or payment structures.

Important note about deposits
Under Massachusetts Security Deposit Laws, landlords are limited to charging no more than one month’s rent for a security deposit. They cannot simply require two or three months as a deposit. However, some may request first month, last month, and other upfront payments which can increase the initial cost of moving in.

Guarantor Services Explained

Guarantor services act as a financial backstop for landlords. Instead of a family member guaranteeing the lease, a third-party company agrees to cover the rent if the tenant cannot pay. In exchange, the tenant pays the company a fee.

Popular Guarantor Services

The Guarantors — roughly 75–85% of one month’s rent
Insurent — roughly 80–90% of one month’s rent
Leap — roughly 75–85% of one month’s rent
Jetty — about 17.5% of the security deposit amount

Exact pricing varies based on your credit profile, income, and the building’s requirements.

Important Note
Not all Boston landlords accept guarantor services. Many large apartment buildings do, but smaller landlords often prefer a personal guarantor instead. Always confirm that a property accepts these services before submitting an application.

Tips for Renters Needing Guarantors

Start early — Ask potential guarantors before you begin applying.
Prepare documents — Help them gather ID and proof of income in advance.
Mention it upfront — Let landlords know you have a guarantor when you inquire.
Get it in writing — The guarantor agreement should be included with the lease.
Explain the responsibility — Make sure your guarantor understands the financial risk.

Questions to Ask a Boston Landlord →