How to Collect Application Fees in New York State?

[Christina Carroll]

I'm screening tenants for the first time and already in progress using Innago and planning to have tenants pay the background check fee. Unfortunately, I didn't catch that there's a $20 fee limit from NYS - luckily caught my mistake before getting into trouble! I don't mind taking on the cost of doing more detailed background/credit/eviction checks, it's a cost of doing business and getting quality tenants, but I'm trying to find the most efficient way to do so.

Are there any online screening tools you've found that let you charge the applicant a set fee and you cover the rest? I haven't found a service yet that's $20 or less for any substantive information.

NYS landlords, how are you collecting fees and conducting your screenings? Do you collect cash or a check at showings?