The first step in renting a property is usually filling out a tenant application form. A tenant application is similar to a job application; it gives a landlord the pertinent information he or she needs to know about a prospective tenant. The landlord can then use this information to make a decision on whether or not to rent or lease the property to the prospective tenant. A tenant application form usually includes the tenant's personal information, such as name, date of birth, drivers license or social security number, and current address and phone number. Information about a prospective tenant's current employer as well as information about their personal income may also be asked for in the form. A landlord may call to verify employment to ensure that a prospective tenant can afford to rent the property. A landlord may also call any former landlords listed on the tenant application form. Signing a tenant application form may also give a landlord the legal right to run a credit or background check on the applicant.