Owner ID check: why we ask and how it works

When someone is about to move into a home for a month or more, one of the first things they want to know is who they’re dealing with. That’s why every owner on Month ‘n’ More completes a live ID check before listing. It’s quick, it’s handled by a dedicated identity provider, and it’s one of the clearest signals we can give renters. Here’s how it works and why we ask.

Why we ask

Monthly stays involve real commitments: a lease, a deposit, sometimes a move across the country. Renters often decide from a distance, before they’ve seen the home in person. A confirmed identity behind every listing helps in a few ways:

• Renters know a real person is on the other side. Every listing on Month ‘n’ More comes from an owner who has matched their face to a government-issued ID.
• It discourages fake listings. Scammers rely on staying anonymous. A live ID and selfie check makes that much harder.
• It protects good owners. When renters trust the platform, honest owners get more serious inquiries.

We think of it as a small step that keeps the whole community calmer.

What the check involves

The ID check is hosted by Stripe, our identity verification provider. You’ll need:

1. A valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport.
2. A live selfie taken during the check, which is matched to the photo on your ID.

You’ll be guided through it on screen,. It’s quick. Find good light, hold your ID steady and follow the prompts. Test or sandbox results don’t count. It has to be a live check.

When you need it

The ID check comes early in the owner journey:

1. Create your owner account (onboarding opens December 1, 2026).
2. Complete your live ID check.
3. Choose your owner plan.
4. Build your listing and submit it for review.

You need a current, completed ID check before you can submit a listing for review. You do it once per account, then renew it every six months. Your check is valid for six calendar months from the date your selfie match is completed.

What happens if it expires

If your ID check lapses, your account may be treated as unverified. We may limit owner features or pause or hide your listings until you complete a new check. Keep an eye on the date and renew before it runs out. It’s the same quick process.

Published isn’t always public

This is the one that catches owners out. A listing can be approved and show as published in your dashboard but still not appear to renters if your ID check isn’t current. Public visibility needs all three:

• A current owner ID check
• An active plan with an open listing space
• Approval from our review team

If your listing isn’t showing in search, check your ID status first. Our guide to what happens after you submit a listing for review covers the other two.

What happens to your documents

Your ID and selfie are processed by our verification provider. They’re never shown on your public listing, and renters can’t see them. Our team may review the result of a check, for example to approve it, decline it or ask for more information if something looks inconsistent. How we handle verification information is described in our Privacy Policy.

You don’t need to upload house deeds, leases or ownership documents to list. The ID check is about who you are, not proof of property ownership.

What verified means, and what it doesn’t

On Month ‘n’ More, verified always means the owner. Here’s what it tells renters, and where its limits are:

It does mean the owner completed a live check matching their face to a government-issued photo ID, within the last six months.

It doesn’t mean:

• That we inspected the property. Listing review checks the information submitted. It isn’t a home inspection.
• That we confirmed ownership or the right to rent.
• That we endorse the owner, or that every detail is guaranteed.

Renters aren’t ID-checked by Month ‘n’ More. Renters can sign up without an ID. That’s why owners should take their own reasonable steps to get to know who they’re talking to. See screening renters the right way.

Property managers acting on an owner’s behalf don’t need to complete the owner ID check themselves. The owner of the listing does.

For renters: how to use it

If you’re a renter, the owner ID check is one helpful signal, not the whole picture. Before you send money:

• Keep conversations in Month ‘n’ More messages when you can.
• Ask for a live video tour or visit in person.
• Get a written rental agreement that spells out rent, deposit, dates and refund terms.
• Never send money to someone pressuring you to move off the platform quickly.

Our renter guide to spotting listing red flags before you send money goes further. The Safety & Trust page has more.

Quick answers

How long does it take? It’s a quick live check. Have your ID in hand and find good light.

How often do I do it? Once per account, then every six months.

Who sees my ID? Our verification provider processes it. It isn’t shown on your listing, and renters never see it.

Can someone else do it for me? No. Professional Listing Setup can prepare your listing, but it doesn’t include your ID check. You complete that yourself.

Do renters get verified? No. Only owners complete the ID check.

Ready to start? Head to List your place, or read how to list your furnished place in 10 steps.