Take control of your rental applications with a verified profile you create once and use everywhere.
Clara gives you a secure, reusable renter profile that presents your verified information to landlords, helping you make a strong first impression while keeping your personal data protected.
What Makes Clara Different
You're in control. Unlike traditional applications where your information disappears into email inboxes and filing cabinets, Clara keeps your data secure in your personal dashboard. You decide where to apply, what information to share, and you can always see the status of your applications.
Apply once, use everywhere. Your verified profile, including credit reports, background checks, and identity verification, stays active for 30 days. Apply to multiple properties without paying or verifying again.
Privacy protected. Your information is securely encrypted and never sold to third parties. Landlords only see what you submit, and they can only access it through their secure Clara account, never via email or PDF.
How It Works: Your Application Journey
Step 1: Create Your Clara Account
Sign up with your email to get started. It's free to create an account, you only pay when you submit an application.
Step 2: Complete Your Profile
The application takes 10-15 minutes if you have your information ready. A progress bar shows where you are, and you can save and return anytime.
You'll complete three main sections:
About You
- Basic information (name, date of birth, contact details)
- Identity verification: One-time, 2-minute process using your government ID and a selfie
- Employment details and income verification (see income verification options below)
- Credit and background check authorization (FCRA-compliant, provided by TransUnion)
- Optional personal statement to explain your situation or highlight strengths
History
- Rental history with previous addresses and landlord contacts
- References (Clara sends automated questionnaires to your previous landlords)
- Residential disclosures
Lease Specific
- Confirm rent amount and move-in date
- Number of occupants
- Vehicles and pets (if applicable)
- Emergency contact
- Additional preferences or information
Need extra support? You can invite a guarantor (like a parent or family member) to strengthen your application. They'll complete their own verification, and landlords will see both profiles linked together.
Step 3: Review Your Complete Application
Before you submit, you'll see exactly what landlords will receive. Review every section to ensure accuracy, this is your verified first impression.
Step 4: Pay & Submit
Applications cost $49, which covers your credit report, background check, and all third-party verification services. Once submitted, your application is locked to protect its integrity.
Need to make changes? Contact the landlord through Clara's secure messaging portal, or submit an updated application at no extra cost.
What Happens After You Apply
You'll receive:
- Confirmation email
- Dashboard access to track your application status
- Ability to see when landlords have viewed your application
- Secure messaging portal to communicate with landlords
Your landlord receives:
- Complete verified report in their secure dashboard
- Notification of your application
- Messaging portal to request additional information
Want to add more details? Use the messaging feature to send additional documents or information directly to the landlord.
Your Reusable Profile: Apply Faster Next Time
Once verified, your profile is active for 30 days. Applying to another property is simple:
- Click the application link for the new property
- Confirm lease-specific details (rent amount, move-in date)
- Submit—no additional fee, no re-verification needed
Your credit report, background check, identity verification, and employment information all carry over automatically. You're building a verified renter profile that works for you wherever you're looking.
Applying to a non-Clara property? You can share your Clara profile directly from your dashboard, giving landlords access to your verified information even if they don't use Clara.
Income Verification: Choose What Works for You
Clara offers three flexible methods to verify your income. Choose the one that fits your situation:
Payroll Connection (Fastest) Connect directly to your employer's payroll system. Most accurate and instant.
Bank Connection Link your bank account securely. Clara identifies recurring income deposits automatically.
Document Upload Upload pay stubs, offer letters, or tax returns.
Not sure which method to use? Learn more about income verification methods
Privacy & Security You Can Trust
Your data is protected:
- Securely encrypted and stored
- Never sold to third parties
- Only accessible through password-protected accounts
- FCRA-compliant credit and background checks
You control access:
- Only landlords you apply to can see your information
- Track who has viewed your application
- Your profile expires after 30 days unless you renew it
Common Questions
How long does it take? 10-15 minutes with your information ready. Save and return anytime if you need a break.
What do I need to have ready? Government-issued ID, employment details, previous addresses, and access to your income verification method of choice.
Can I apply with a roommate? Yes! Each person completes their own application. You'll enter each other's email addresses to link your applications together.
What if I don't meet the income requirements? Add a guarantor (parent, family member, or family friend) to support your application with their income and credit.
Can I use Clara for multiple properties? Absolutely. That's the point! Your verified profile stays active for 30 days, so you can apply to as many properties as you'd like with no additional fees or re-verification.
What if I made a mistake? Contact the landlord through Clara's messaging portal, or submit a new application at no extra cost.
Ready to Get Started?
Create your Clara profile and apply to your next rental with confidence.