What if I'm Self Employed?

Income is income...   You just have to prove that you have it.    In general, documents that you'll need to present might include:

1. Tax Transcripts
2. Current bank statements – checking & savings
3. Landlord reference letter stating the term of your lease & payment history
4. Cancelled rent checks for the last three (3) months of your lease
5. Legible copy of valid state photo ID, driver’s license and/or passport

Some possible ways to prove cash income:

1. Create a Paystub
2. Keep an updated spreadsheet
3. Use bookkeeping software
4. Deposit payment and print bank records
5. Put it in writing with client signature
6. Create own receipts
7. Utilize tax documents
8. Use an app
9. Proof of income letter
10. Employment contracts

*Please note, I am not an accountant, bookkeeper, lawyer or financial advisor.  You should discuss this with the appropriate professional.    Just be sure to have any documents you need in order BEFORE you start apartment hunting.  

If all else fails, you can also use the services of a personal or third party guarantor.   In that case, you will usually need to prove that you make 27-40x annual income of the monthly rent.