Track where each applicant is in the process and know when action is needed.
Your Clara dashboard displays real-time application statuses so you always know what's happening with your applicants. Here's what each status means and what you should do.
Application Status Overview
Awaiting Submission
What it means: A renter has started their application but hasn't completed and submitted it yet.
What triggers this status:
- You sent a direct email invitation and the renter began filling out their application
- A renter clicked your application link and started but didn't finish
What you should do: Wait for the renter to complete their application. They can save their progress and return anytime. If it's been several days, you can send them a friendly reminder through your preferred communication channel.
1/2 Submitted (or 2/3, 3/4, etc. for multiple applicants)
What it means: At least one applicant has fully submitted their portion, but you're still waiting on roommates, co-applicants, or guarantors to complete theirs.
What triggers this status:
- One person in a multi-applicant application (roommates, couples, co-signers) has submitted
- You'll receive an email notification each time an individual applicant submits their portion
What you should do: Wait for all applicants to submit before reviewing. Once everyone completes their application, the status will automatically change to "Pending Review" and you'll receive a notification.
Tip: All applicants must submit before you can access the complete screening report.
Pending Review
What it means: The application is fully submitted and ready for you to review. All required verifications are complete, and the full screening report is available in your dashboard.
What triggers this status:
- A single applicant completes and submits their application
- All co-applicants in a group application have submitted
What you should do: Review the complete screening report and take action by approving or denying the application. Applications will remain in "Pending Review" indefinitely until you make a decision.
Important: Taking action helps you stay organized and communicate clearly with applicants about their status.
Approved
What it means: You've approved this application and selected this renter(s) for your property.
What triggers this status:
- You click "Approve" on the application page
What you should do: Contact the approved applicant to finalize lease details and move forward with signing. You can communicate through Clara's secure messaging portal or via your preferred method.
Denied
What it means: You've declined this application.
What triggers this status:
- You click "Deny" on the application in your dashboard
What you should do: Clara does automatically notify renters when you deny their application. You're responsible for communicating your decision according to fair housing requirements in your jurisdiction. We recommend:
- Sending an adverse action notice if required by your local laws
- Providing clear reasoning for your decision
- Consulting with a legal professional if you're unsure about notification requirements
Best Practices for Managing Applications
Take action on applications promptly. Even if you're still reviewing candidates, updating statuses helps you:
- Stay organized as applications come in
- Communicate clearly with applicants
- Track which applications you've reviewed
- Maintain a professional process
Review complete applications only. Wait until all co-applicants submit (status shows "Pending Review") before making decisions. Partial applications don't give you the full picture.
Use Clara's messaging portal. Communicate with applicants securely through your dashboard to request additional information or ask follow-up questions.