A co-applicant is a person who applies jointly with another individual for a rental lease or housing agreement. Each co-applicant shares equal responsibility for fulfilling the obligations and terms of the lease. They are each liable for rent payments, any damages, or breaches of the rental agreement.

Having a co-applicant can increase the chances of getting approved if the combined income, credit scores, and credentials are stronger overall. However, both parties are then fully accountable for the success of the tenancy.