How does PadSplit's prepayment option work for membership approval?

Last updated August 4, 2026

Don't have proof of employment or other traditional income documents? The prepayment option gives you another way to meet PadSplit's financial requirements and qualify for membership. 

Overview of the Prepayment Option

The prepayment option enables applicants to bypass traditional income verification by making an upfront payment. This payment is used as a credit balance for future weekly charges. It is particularly useful for unemployed applicants, students, or those without recent income documentation.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using the Prepayment Option

  1. Start the Application Process: - Go to the verification options page during your application. Select “See more verification options.”
  2. Choose a Room: - Browse available rooms and select the one you’re interested in. The system will automatically calculate the required prepayment amount based on the room’s weekly rate.
  3. Submit the Prepayment: - Pay the calculated amount to complete the verification process. Once the payment is submitted, your membership is approved promptly and you are now ready to book the room of your choice.

Post-Move-In Payment Process

  • After the prepayment, all your subsequent payments, including your booking fee and your weekly charges are automatically deducted from the prepaid balance until it runs out.
  • Once the prepaid balance is fully used, you transition to regular weekly or bi-weekly payments depending on your choice during booking.

Refund Policy for Unused Balances

  • If you move out before the prepaid balance is fully used, the remaining amount will be refunded to you.

Notes on Availability and Limitations

  • Some properties may require additional host review, while others offer “Instant Book” options for faster approval. 
  • The prepayment amount is calculated as the desired approval amount multiplied by 12.
  • Prepayment is an income verification method. After payment, members will only be able to book rooms priced within the approval amount selected during the prepayment process.

     

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I cannot use the entire prepaid balance?

Any unused balance will be refunded if you move out before it is fully used.

Can I use the prepayment option for any property?

Yes. Prepayment is an alternative to income verification. Applicants are free to book any room within their approval amounts after they complete the membership application. However, please keep in mind that some properties require host approval after each booking.

How is the prepayment amount calculated?

Applicants are free to select the prepayment amount they would like to make with a minimum of $1,800. The prepayment amounts will determine the approval amounts. 

The prepayment amount is calculated by multiplying your desired approval amount by 12. Approved members are only able to book rooms that are within their approval amounts. Eligibility is determined by actual room rates, therefore, temporary discounts do not affect eligibility threshold. By following these steps and understanding the process, you can use the prepayment option to secure your PadSplit membership even without traditional income verification.

Example prepayment scenario

If an applicant makes the minimum prepayment of $1,800, their membership will be approved at $150 (which is 1/12th of their payment). This means that they are eligible for booking any room rated up to $150 per week. If a member wants to book a room rated $200 per week, their approval amount will need to match it; therefore, they must make a $2,400 prepayment in order to receive a $200 approval amount.