New York Application fees & screening

How much can a landlord charge for a rental application fee in New York?

Application or other upfront fees are banned except background and credit check fees, which are limited to actual cost or $20, whichever is less, and waived if the applicant provides a check from the past 30 days.

Verified Source: N.Y. Real Prop. Law § 238-a(1) · last checked 2026-10-15