Understanding the renter application experience helps you set clear expectations and answer applicant questions confidently.
Overview: What Your Applicants Will Experience
When renters click your Clara application link, they'll complete a streamlined process that typically takes 10-15 minutes if they have their information ready. The application includes a progress bar, and renters can save and return later if needed.
The application is customized based on your requirements—renters only complete the sections you've marked as required, though they can voluntarily add optional information to strengthen their application.
The Application Journey: Three Main Steps
Step 1: Create Clara Account
Renters create a free account or log in if they've used Clara before.
Step 2: Answer Lease-Specific Questions
- Confirm rent amount and move-in date
- Add number of occupants
- Invite roommates or guarantors (if applicable)
When renters add roommates or guarantors, Clara immediately sends invitations for them to complete their own verifications.
Step 3: Complete Their Profile
Renters work through three main sections:
About You
Basic Info: Name, date of birth, contact details, current address, SSN
ID Verification: Live ID photo + selfie with face matching (one-time, 2 minutes)
Employment Information: Current employer name, position, manager contact details
Income Verification: Choose payroll connection, bank connection, or document upload [Link to: Understanding Employment Verification Methods]
Credit & Background: FCRA-compliant consent for TransUnion credit report and background check (criminal, eviction, liens/judgments)
Personal Statement: Optional free-text field to explain their situation
History
Rental: Previous addresses with landlord contact information, move-in/out dates, rent amounts, and reasons for leaving
Residential: Questions about rental history and other rental history disclosures
References: Previous landlord details (Clara sends automated questionnaires)
Lease Specific
Vehicles: Make, model, year, license plate for any vehicles
Pets: Breed, weight, age, gender, vaccination status, assistance animal designation (only appears if renters add pets)
Other Occupants: Details about any minors who will live in the property
Emergency Contact: Name and contact information for emergency situations
Living Preferences: Any additional preferences or information relevant to the lease
Step 4: Review, Pay & Submit
Renters review their entire application, pay the $49 fee, and submit. Applications are locked after submission—if changes are needed, they can submit a new application at no extra cost.
How Your Requirements Affect Their Experience
If you require all verifications: Renters complete every section (full 10-15 minutes)
If you mark sections "Not Required": Those sections show as optional; renters can skip or complete voluntarily
If you don't include sections: They disappear completely from the application
Your requirements directly impact completion time and the information you receive.
[Customizing Your Application Requirements]
After Submission
Renters receive:
- Confirmation email and dashboard access to track status
- Ability to communicate via Clara's messaging portal
- Reusable profile (credit/background/identity verification carries over to other Clara properties for 30 days)
You receive:
- Email notification of new application
- Dashboard access to view complete report (never sent via PDF/email)
- Messaging portal to communicate and request additional documentation
Quick Answers for Common Renter Questions
"How long does it take?" 10-15 minutes with information ready; can save and return later
"What's the fee?" $49, covers credit report, background check, and verification services
"Can I apply with a roommate?" Yes, each completes separate applications
"What if I don't meet income requirements?" Add a guarantor to support the application
"Can I edit after submitting?" No, but can submit new application at no extra cost
Legal Disclaimer
Clara provides tools to help you collect and review rental applications, but you are responsible for complying with all applicable federal, state, and local fair housing and tenant screening laws. Screening requirements vary significantly by location. We strongly recommend consulting with a local attorney or fair housing expert to ensure your rental criteria comply with all applicable laws in your area.