Understanding Income Projection for Rental Applications

Many clients across the U.S. request an “Income Projection Letter” certified by a CPA, often needed for rental applications. Typically, landlords ask for this letter from self-employed individuals, independent contractors, or those receiving 1099 income. If you own a single-member LLC, you might also need this document.

Why Landlords Request Projections

Landlords request this letter because self-employment income can be unpredictable. Analyzing the income and expenses of a self-employed person or independent contractor over time can be complex. To simplify the process, leasing agents prefer a CPA to review and create the projection.

The CPA’s Role in Income Validation

Clients sometimes approach us with a pre-prepared projection, simply needing CPA validation or certification. However, the work goes beyond just a signature. Our team thoroughly compares all bank statements with the projection for consistency. Additionally, we cross-reference this data with prior and current tax returns to ensure accuracy before signing off.

Handling Additional Income Sources

In some cases, landlords may require a more detailed breakdown of income. For example, if you have multiple streams of income, such as W2 earnings, rental real estate, other business ventures, pensions, or passive activities, these may need to be separately itemized. This detailed breakdown helps landlords better understand the stability and reliability of your income sources.

Moreover, obtaining and certifying a projection isn’t just about meeting rental application requirements; it’s also a valuable financial tool. A well-prepared projection can give you a clearer picture of your financial situation, helping you make informed decisions about your business and personal finances. It can also serve as a basis for future financial planning, allowing you to anticipate cash flow and manage expenses more effectively.

Contact Us for Assistance

At Dimov Tax, we understand that dealing with financial documentation can be daunting, especially when meeting specific requirements for rental applications. That’s why our team is dedicated to making the process as smooth and straightforward as possible. We work closely with you to ensure that your projection accurately reflects your financial situation and meets the standards required by your landlord.

For help with your projection letter, reach out anytime. We have assisted many self-employed individuals with their rental applications successfully. Use the contact form below or email us directly at hello@dimovtax.com to get started.