Bilt lets you charge rent to a credit card without a fee, which is unusual because most landlords and payment platforms charge 2–3% to accept card payments
Bilt is a credit card designed specifically to let you build credit history through rent payments. The card itself charges no annual fee, and Bilt has partnered with landlords and property management companies so you can pay rent directly without the processing fees that normally apply when you use a credit card for rent.
The catch is that you need to be approved for the card first, and your landlord has to be part of Bilt's network or you have to use Bilt's own payment service. If your landlord isn't in the network, you can still use the card to pay rent through Bilt's platform, but the mechanics work differently than a direct landlord payment.
Key Takeaways
- Bilt charges no fee when you pay rent directly to a landlord in their network, which is rare because most payment platforms charge 2–3% for card payments.
- You must be approved for the Bilt card first; approval is based on credit history, income, and other factors like any other credit card.
- If your landlord is not in Bilt's network, you can still use the card through Bilt's payment platform, but you will pay a processing fee (typically 1–2%).
- Rent payments report to the three major credit bureaus, so on-time payments build your credit score over time.
- You earn points on rent payments, which can be redeemed for statement credits or travel rewards depending on the card version.
How to learn about your landlord is in the Bilt network
Bilt maintains a searchable directory of landlords and property management companies that have partnered with them. You can search by address or landlord name on Bilt's website before you apply for the card. If your landlord is listed, you can pay rent directly with no processing fee once your card is approved.
If your landlord is not in the network, you have two options: you can ask your landlord to join (Bilt provides information for landlords on how to do this), or you can use Bilt's payment platform to send money from your card to your landlord. The second option involves a fee, so it only makes sense if you are building credit and the points or credit-building benefit outweighs the cost.
The application and approval process
Applying for Bilt is like applying for any other credit card. You provide your name, address, income, employment information, and Social Security number. Bilt then checks your credit report and makes a decision, usually within minutes to a few days.
Approval depends on your credit score, income, debt-to-income ratio, and credit history. If you have no credit history or a low score, you may be denied. If you are denied, you can reapply after a few months, or you can look into a secured credit card as an alternative way to build credit while paying rent.
Paying rent directly to your landlord through Bilt
Once your card is approved and your landlord is in the Bilt network, paying rent is straightforward. You log into your Bilt account, select your landlord, enter the rent amount, and authorize the payment. The money goes directly to your landlord's account, and the payment reports to the credit bureaus as a rent payment.
Payments typically process within 1–3 business days. You earn points on the full rent amount, and the on-time payment builds your credit history. If you miss a payment, Bilt will report that to the credit bureaus as well, so it is important to pay on time.
Paying rent through Bilt's platform when your landlord is not in the network
If your landlord is not in Bilt's network, you can still use your Bilt card to pay rent through Bilt's payment platform. You enter your landlord's information, the rent amount, and your card details. Bilt then sends the payment to your landlord, usually by check or ACH transfer.
This option comes with a processing fee, typically 1–2% of the rent amount. You still earn points on the payment, and it still reports to the credit bureaus, but the fee reduces the benefit. For example, if your rent is $1,500 and the fee is 2%, you pay $30 extra. That fee may or may not be worth it depending on the points value and your credit-building goals.
How rent payments affect your credit score
Rent payments normally do not report to credit bureaus because most landlords do not have the infrastructure to report them. Bilt changes this by reporting your rent payments to Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. On-time payments build your credit history and can raise your score over time, especially if you have limited credit history.
The benefit is largest for people new to credit or rebuilding after missed payments. If you already have a long credit history with on-time payments, the rent reporting will help but may not move your score as much. Missed or late payments also report, so this is a tool that works both ways.
Points and rewards on rent payments
Bilt offers different card versions with different rewards structures. The standard version typically earns points on rent payments that can be redeemed for statement credits. Some versions earn bonus points on rent or offer travel rewards.
The points value depends on how you redeem them. A statement credit is usually worth 1 cent per point, so 1,500 points on a $1,500 rent payment would give you $15 back. Travel redemptions may be worth more or less depending on the specific flight or hotel. Read the rewards terms carefully before you apply so you know what you are earning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Bilt report rent payments to credit bureaus even if I pay late?
Yes. Bilt reports all rent payments, on-time and late, to the three major credit bureaus. A late payment will hurt your credit score, so treat Bilt rent payments the same way you treat any other bill payment deadline.
Can I use Bilt to pay rent if I do not have any credit history?
You may be denied for Bilt if you have no credit history, because the card issuer has no way to assess your risk. If you are denied, a secured credit card (which requires a cash deposit) is often easier to get approved for and can also help you build credit.
What happens if my landlord leaves the Bilt network?
If your landlord stops participating, you can still pay rent through Bilt's payment platform, but you will pay a processing fee. You can also ask your landlord to rejoin or switch to paying rent another way and use your Bilt card for other purchases to keep building credit.
Is the Bilt card worth it if my landlord is not in the network?
That depends on the processing fee and the points value. If the fee is 2% and you earn 1 point per dollar, you are paying $30 to earn $15 in value on a $1,500 rent payment. The card may still be worth it if you use it for other purchases or if building credit is your priority, but the math is tighter.
Can I pay someone else's rent with my Bilt card?
No. Bilt's system is designed for you to pay your own rent to your own landlord. If you try to pay someone else's rent, the payment may be rejected or the credit-reporting benefit may not apply.