# Jetty vs Rhino vs Obligo vs TheGuarantors | Compared > How each deposit program works, fee structures, claims liability, and TheGuarantors URL: https://austinhighriseapartments.com/guide/jetty-vs-obligo-vs-theguarantors-vs-rhino/ Last-Modified: 2026-10-20 Tags: jetty vs rhino vs obligo ## Four programs, one goal Most Austin high rises accept at least one security deposit alternative, so you can keep cash in your pocket at move-in instead of handing over a full deposit. The four you’ll see most are **Jetty, Obligo, TheGuarantors and Rhino**. They work differently, and the building usually decides which ones you can use. Here’s how they compare. For which towers take which, see deposit alternative apartments [/deposit-alternative-apartments/ →](/deposit-alternative-apartments/) . ![Four-column comparison graphic of deposit programs](/images/content/four-column-comparison-graphic-of-deposit-alternat.webp) ## At a glance | | Jetty | Obligo | TheGuarantors | Rhino | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Model | Surety bond replaces the deposit | Billing authorization instead of a cash hold | Deposit coverage plus lease guarantee products | Surety bond replaces the deposit | | What you pay | Non-refundable fee | Small fee | Fee based on coverage | Non-refundable fee or monthly premium | | Cash held | None | None | None | None | | Damage at move-out | Program pays valid claim, bills you | Charged to your authorized account | Program pays valid claim, seeks repayment | Program pays valid claim, bills you | | Acts as guarantor | No (separate products) | No | Yes | No | Program terms and pricing change, so we confirm current details with the building and program. ## How each one works **Jetty.** A surety bond: you pay a fee, the bond guarantees the landlord up to the deposit amount, and if there’s a valid move-out claim, Jetty pays and then bills you. **Obligo.** Instead of holding your cash, Obligo uses a billing authorization linked to your account. Nothing is taken unless there’s a valid claim at move-out. **TheGuarantors.** Offers deposit coverage and lease guarantee products. The guarantee side can stand in for a co-signer when your income or credit doesn’t meet a building’s criteria, which makes it useful for relocators and renters with thin or imperfect credit. **Rhino.** A surety bond like Jetty: a fee or monthly premium replaces the deposit; valid claims are paid by Rhino and then billed to you. ![Move-out inspection checklist and photos](/images/content/move-out-inspection-checklist-and-photos-of-a-clea.webp) > **Not insurance for you** > > None of these programs makes damage free. They replace the cash deposit. If there’s a valid claim, you still pay it. Good move-in and move-out photos are your best protection. ## Which should you choose? Usually the building decides, because each tower partners with specific programs. When you have a choice: - **Want to avoid any upfront fee?** Ask about Obligo-style billing authorization. - **Need a guarantor too?** TheGuarantors can cover both needs. - **Comparing fees?** Get quotes for your actual rent and lease length from each available program. ## What happens at move-out The real test of any deposit alternative comes when you move out: 1. **Move-out inspection.** The building inspects the unit and lists any charges for damage beyond normal wear or unpaid balances. 2. **Claim filed.** If there are charges, the building files a claim with the program (or charges an authorized account, depending on the model). 3. **Notification.** You’re notified of the claim and usually given a chance to review or dispute it. 4. **Payment.** The program pays the building for valid charges, then seeks repayment from you, or the charge is applied to your authorized payment method. ### Protect yourself at both ends - **At move-in:** photograph every room, floor, wall and appliance, and submit a written move-in condition report. - **During the lease:** report maintenance issues in writing so they aren’t blamed on you later. - **At move-out:** clean thoroughly, repair what you’re permitted to, and photograph the unit after it’s empty. - **If you disagree with a claim:** respond quickly with your photos and documentation. ### Questions to ask before enrolling 1. What’s the total cost: one-time fee, monthly premium or both? 2. Is any part refundable? 3. How are claims reviewed, and how can I dispute one? 4. Does it cover pet deposits? 5. What happens at renewal: does coverage continue, and at what cost? For the cost comparison against a traditional deposit, read deposit alternative vs. security deposit [/guide/deposit-alternative-vs-security-deposit/ →](/guide/deposit-alternative-vs-security-deposit/) . ## Is a deposit alternative right for you? It’s a trade: a non-refundable fee in exchange for not tying up cash. It makes most sense when move-in cash is tight, such as relocating or carrying two leases. Read deposit alternative vs. security deposit [/guide/deposit-alternative-vs-security-deposit/ →](/guide/deposit-alternative-vs-security-deposit/) for the break-even math, then ask which programs [/contact/ →](/contact/) the towers on your list accept. Quick Answers ## Questions renters ask Which deposit alternative is cheapest? + It depends on your rent, the deposit amount the building would require and the lease length. Compare the actual quotes for your unit. Do I still owe for damages with a deposit alternative? + Yes. With surety-bond programs, the program pays the landlord's valid claim and then bills you. Which program acts as a guarantor? + TheGuarantors offers lease guarantee products in addition to deposit coverage. Can I choose any program at any building? + No. Each building works with specific programs. Most Austin towers accept at least one. Keep Reading ## Related guides All guides [/guide/ →](/guide/) Decision guide ### Deposit Alternative vs. Traditional Security Deposit: Which Costs Less? Non-refundable fee vs. refundable cash, move-out claim liability, and the cash-flow trade-off for relocators. [Deposit Alternative vs. Traditional Security Deposit: Which Costs Less? →](/guide/deposit-alternative-vs-security-deposit/) Next step Learn more about Deposit Alternative Apartments (Jetty, Obligo, TheGuarantors, Rhino) Qualified buildings, current rents and what we check before recommending a tower. Explore Deposit Alternatives [/deposit-alternative-apartments/ →](/deposit-alternative-apartments/) Get My High Rise Matches [/contact/ →](/contact/)