I was told I needed to fill out a rental application (where ssn is required) before viewing it because he gets several requests a day. Doing a background check without a Social Security number from a rental can often be done.We require an applicant's Social Security number in order to run a credit and background check. If you don't provide it, we can't run the check. A social security number is not mandatory for a credit check. You can order a credit report with a name and address. □ Social Security number. However, a credit check is somewhat different—landlords must collect an applicant's Social Security number to move forward. All applicants are expected have a passing score of 70 points out of 100 to be considered for housing. Without an SSN, you'll need to screen your applicants in other ways.