Quick answer

Start with guaranteed base salary. A documented annual bonus may be considered by some properties, but do not assume the full amount will count. A signing bonus is usually better treated as one-time cash for moving, deposits, furniture or savings rather than recurring income that supports higher monthly rent. Each apartment sets its own screening policy, so confirm what compensation it recognizes before applying.

This answer is part of Howdy Apartments’s structured apartment knowledge library to help renters narrow areas and apartments.