I am self employed. I have a good credit rating despite my taxes showing a loss after all my expenses.
I applied for a lease through Tesla's website in early November 2014. I didn't hear back after a day or so and went to the Toronto Lawrence showroom. I moved forward to purchase a demo Model S and was approved. There were some paperwork delays waiting for Tesla in California but I had my keys in a week.
After enjoying the car for a month, I got a letter from Tesla saying my credit application was denied. Whaaaat?
I have to assume it was my online application that was denied. So, my advice is to apply in person at the showroom. At the very least it will be faster to get a yes or no. More over, people on the ground are more practical than people just looking at credit ratings and income through a remote monitor.