Foo - Too Much Information?

Sorry, this thread is not as risqué as the title might suggest!

I am considering moving to a new apartment because my current landlord has been extremely negligent about performing a very necessary repair (a leaking window). However, I am a little uneasy about some of the information that is requested on rental applications. For example, an application I recently received asked for my social security number, date of birth, checking and savings account numbers with bank names, credit card account numbers, major loans, past and present employment history, etc. I understand that a landlord will need to do some screening to ensure that he is renting to a reliable, qualified tennant. I also understand that buying a car or taking out a loan, for example, also involves divulging personal financial information. However, in this day of identity theft, credit card fraud, etc. I am reluctant to be throwing all that information out there to someone who I really don't know.

So, where would you draw the line on the information that you provide?

I would never give out my social security number, ever. If you are paying your rent by cheque the landlord will have your bank account number and bank information so I'd provide that and the name of my personal banker for further information. But I'd speak to my banker first to ensure the he/she doesn't divulge too much information. As for credit card info, I don't understand that.

I would provide either a SS # or the credit card number. I would never give out my bank number unless I'm under very specific circumstances. It sounds like your future landlord does not have good intentions.

Thanks for the feedback and ideas. Does anyone know what would be the minimum information required to run a credit check on a potential tenant?

When I filled out applications for my current apartment, I needed to provide:
Name
Current Address
Employer/Address
SSN
By means of the application fee, they had my bank info since I paid with a check.
It sounds like the manager is asking for a bit much in your case. All that information they're asking for is available in a background check which can be had with just the information I listed above. (I thought) that's what the application fee is supposed to cover: Paperwork processing and background check.

SSN is pretty much required to check your credit... the rest seems excessive, unless you are paying a fee, they should have no need to know any specific payment information.

Credit checks are beginning to be normal for rentals.

That sounds weird. That's a lot of info.

That sounds weird. That's a lot of info.

Agreed. This person is renting out a spot in an 11 unit building, and he seemed pretty credible. However, I've decided to keep looking and see what else is out there. I've learned to trust my instincts over the years, and this application seems a bit excessive.

I think I will print out a current credit report, black out specific account numbers except for the last four digits, and provide it to potential landlords if they request it.

Thanks to all for the feedback so far!