Leases- 18 y/o

pinetree47

New Member
Jurisdiction
Washington
I'm 17 but I need to move out the minute I hit 18. Hence, apartment hunting is ongoing, and I'm nervous because I don't have any credit and I would not have a cosigner. I have employment and money saved so I could handle a few months of rent, and I still have time left before I turn 18. What can I do to maximize my chances of getting an apartment?
 
As I said on the other forum you posted this on:

I'm sorry, but your (your friend's) question is not a legal question. Quite likely, you(r friend) will need a cosigner. The chances of finding a landlord who will rent to a minor are virtually nil.
 
Youth (ages 12-17) and young adults (ages 18-24) who are currently experiencing homelessness, have unstable housing, or are concerned they might become homeless can find resources from local service providers listed. OHY does not provide any services directly.

Washington state might be able to assist you in your quest to AVOID youth homelessness, read below to see if you qualify for their services.

  1. Washington 211: Visit the website or dial 211 to search for a range of community resources, including housing, food, education and other services throughout the state.
  2. Coordinated Entry site (Excel): Contact your local coordinated entry site, as this is often the first step required to access a housing program. Coordinated Entry is responsible for prioritizing individuals and households by level of need and connecting them with services that have openings. Some sites have youth and young adult specific providers listed.
  3. OHY Funded Service Provider List (Excel): The list of organizations with OHY funding or oversight is organized by county or search the resource map at the link. Contact a youth service provider directly for program-specific information on eligibility and how to access available services. This is not a comprehensive list of all resources like 211.

Which program do I need?

OHY services are available for people in a variety of situations. You could qualify for help if you are couch surfing, doubling up, behind on bills or in other situations where your housing is unstable. Many organizations provide additional services and can help you navigate to the right program for your needs. Please reach out to a service provider in your area even if you are unsure if you qualify. They will likely need to ask some questions about your situation to understand how best to help.

Crisis Response: Do you need essentials like food, hygiene supplies, emergency shelter or finding other resources?

Prevention: Is your housing unstable or need help avoiding homelessness?

Youth Residential Services: Are you under 18 and needing housing or support?

Young Adult Housing: Do you need help with rent or other housing costs?

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers below relate specifically to OHY-funded services, also see Washington | Homeless Youth Handbook for more statewide information and resources.

What are my rights when getting services?

What information do I have to share about myself?

What if I cannot or do not want to contact my parents or guardians?

What happens with the information I share with staff?

Are you pregnant or parenting?

Do you have a disability or need accommodations?

Have you experienced violence or a threatening situation?

Have you experienced foster care?

Are you an immigrant or not a U.S. citizen?

Are you moving to another area?

Are you waiting for services but need help now?

Are you age 25 or older?




 

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