Jetty vs. Obligo vs. TheGuarantors vs. Rhino
How each deposit program works, fee structures, claims liability, and TheGuarantors' guarantor function, for Austin renters.
By the Austin High Rise Apartment Team · · 6 min read
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.
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.
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:
- Move-out inspection. The building inspects the unit and lists any charges for damage beyond normal wear or unpaid balances.
- Claim filed. If there are charges, the building files a claim with the program (or charges an authorized account, depending on the model).
- Notification. You’re notified of the claim and usually given a chance to review or dispute it.
- 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
- What’s the total cost: one-time fee, monthly premium or both?
- Is any part refundable?
- How are claims reviewed, and how can I dispute one?
- Does it cover pet deposits?
- 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.
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 for the break-even math, then ask which programs the towers on your list accept.