The short answer
New Jersey landlords can screen for income, credit, and rental history using consistent written criteria, but the Fair Chance in Housing Act (effective 2022) bars asking about criminal history on the initial application and allows a limited review only after a conditional offer, with strict look-back periods and an individualized assessment. Fair-housing laws also protect source of income, including vouchers.
What you can screen for
- Income and ability to pay — applied consistently, counting all lawful income sources
- Credit history, within reason and applied the same way to everyone
- Rental history and landlord references
- Identity verification
Fair Chance in Housing Act limits
Landlords covered by the Act may not ask about criminal history on the application or before a conditional offer. After a conditional offer, only certain convictions within set look-back periods may be considered, the applicant must be told and given a chance to provide context, and any withdrawal must follow an individualized assessment. Some offenses are exempt from the limits.
Source of income and fair housing
New Jersey's Law Against Discrimination prohibits refusing to rent because an applicant uses a housing voucher or other lawful income. It also protects a broad list of characteristics beyond federal law. Screening criteria must be written, consistent, and applied to every applicant.
How we screen
We use written criteria, collect applications online, verify income and references, and follow the Act's sequence for any background review. Consistency protects owners against discrimination claims.
Common questions
Can I refuse a tenant with a housing voucher in New Jersey?
No. New Jersey law prohibits source-of-income discrimination, including refusing applicants who pay with vouchers or other lawful assistance.
Can I charge an application fee?
Fees should be reasonable and tied to actual screening costs. Check current New Jersey and municipal rules before setting them.
General information about New Jersey rules as of October 2026, not legal advice. Laws and municipal requirements change — confirm specifics with your attorney or the municipality before acting.
Reviewed October 2026 by Comet Management, Hamburg, NJ.