Salinas, California · Change

Applying for a place

What they can ask for in Salinas

How much can they charge me to apply?

About $69 per applicant in 2026, max.

California's cap grows with inflation each year.

From the California Legislature, read Oct 1, 2026.
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“In no case shall the amount of the application screening fee charged by the landlord or their agent be greater than thirty dollars ($30) per applicant …”

Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.6 · leginfo.legislature.ca.gov · found word for word in the source
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How big can the deposit be?

Max 1 month's rent.

An individual owner (2 rentals, 4 units at most) may ask for 2 months, but not from a service member.

From the California Legislature, read Oct 1, 2026.
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“a landlord shall not demand or receive security, however denominated, in an amount or value in excess of an amount equal to one month’s rent, in addition to any rent for the first month paid on or before initial occupancy …”

Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5 · leginfo.legislature.ca.gov · found word for word in the source
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Can they turn me down for a housing voucher?

No. Vouchers count as income.

Turning you down for a voucher is illegal.

From the California Legislature, read Oct 1, 2026.
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“For the owner of any housing accommodation to discriminate against or harass any person because of the race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, ancestry, familial status, source of income, disability, veteran or military status, or genetic information of that person …”

Cal. Gov. Code § 12955 · leginfo.legislature.ca.gov · found word for word in the source
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Who can help

  1. Get free legal helpFree help with your situation.LawHelpCA
  2. Find a lawyerReferral service of the State Bar.State Bar of California

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Information about the law, not legal advice.