Every renter over 18 submits their own verified application, giving you a complete, individual screening report for each person who will live in your property.
How the Co-Application Process Works
Step 1: Primary renter starts the application The first renter begins their Clara application and navigates to the "Roommates & Guarantors" section. They enter each co-applicant's email address to send them an invitation.
Step 2: Co-applicants complete their own applications Each co-applicant receives an email invitation and completes their own separate application through their individual Clara account. They each pay their own $49 screening fee.
Step 3: You receive linked applications Once all co-applicants submit, you'll see each application linked together in your dashboard under the property, making it easy to review the full group at a glance.
What You Receive
For each co-applicant you'll see a complete, individual screening report including:
- Credit report and score
- Background check
- Income and employment verification
- Identity verification
- Rental history and references
Reviewing each renter individually gives you a full picture of the entire household, not just the primary applicant.
What If a Renter Needs to Add a Co-Applicant After Submitting?
There are two options if a roommate needs to be added after the primary renter has already submitted:
Option 1: Re-submit with the co-applicant linked The primary renter submits a new application and includes the co-applicant's email in the Roommates section. This links both applications together in your dashboard for easy side-by-side review.
Option 2: Co-applicant applies separately The roommate can start and submit their own independent Clara application. Their application will appear in your dashboard but won't be linked to the primary renter's application, you'll need to review them individually.
Our recommendation: Option 1 keeps everything organized and clearly connected, but Option 2 works if re-submitting isn't practical. Use Clara's messaging portal to coordinate with renters on whichever approach works best.
Common Questions
"Do all co-applicants pay the $49 fee?" Yes. Each renter pays their own screening fee, covering their individual credit report, background check, and verification services.
"Can I require all roommates to apply before I review?" Yes, wait until all applications show "Pending Review" status before making a decision. This ensures you have complete information on the full household.
"What if one co-applicant doesn't complete their application?" Their status will show as "Awaiting Submission" in your dashboard. You can follow up with the primary renter to encourage their co-applicant to complete and submit.