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.A social security number is not mandatory for a credit check. You can order a credit report with a name and address. Since the SSN is a required field, have them temporarily enter any 9-digit number so they can continue filling out their rental application and complete it. All of the credit bureaus prohibit the use of consumer reports or information for rental transactions. 8. A typical background check only requires an individual's name and other information, while a credit check involves an SSN check.