San Jose, California · Change

Applying for a place

What they can ask for in San Jose

How much can they charge me to apply?

Application fee is capped by state law.

This applies to rent-stabilized homes, and landlords can't charge more than the state allows.

From San José Mun. Code § 17.23.315(B)(4), read Oct 4, 2026.
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“No Landlord shall charge a Tenant an application screening fee in excess of the amount allowed under California Civil Code Section 1950.6 (b), as amended …”

San José Mun. Code § 17.23.315(B)(4) · sanjose.legistar.com
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Can they raise my deposit?

It can't be raised once it's set.

Your deposit stays the same in rent-stabilized homes, unless you and your landlord ask for new services.

From San José Mun. Code § 17.23.315(E), read Oct 4, 2026.
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“a Security Deposit, once established, cannot be raised for the duration of the tenancy …”

San José Mun. Code § 17.23.315(E) · sanjose.legistar.com
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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.