Massachusetts Deposit Return Deadline
30 daysUnder Massachusetts law, a landlord generally has 30 days after move-out to return your security deposit (or provide an itemized statement of deductions) — the FAQ below covers the conditions that can change the deadline.
Educational information: generated from our Massachusetts law database (last updated 2024-01-01). Not legal advice.
How Massachusetts compares
51 of 51 US jurisdictions set a statutory deadline for returning security deposits. Here is how Massachusetts compares with other states in our database.
| State | Deposit Return Deadline |
|---|---|
| Massachusetts | 30 days |
| Michigan | 30 days |
| Minnesota | 21 days |
| Mississippi | 45 days |
| Missouri | 30 days |
Frequently asked questions
- How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Massachusetts?
- Generally 30 days after move-out. Maximum 1 month rent (separate from first/last month rent and key deposit). Must be held in separate interest-bearing MA bank account. Interest paid annually at lower of 5% or actual bank rate. Receipt required within 30 days. Violation: triple damages plus attorney fees.
- Can a Massachusetts landlord keep my deposit for damages?
- Landlords may generally deduct for unpaid rent and damage beyond normal wear and tear, but must account for deductions. Deductions for ordinary wear and tear are not allowed.
- What if my Massachusetts landlord misses the deposit return deadline?
- Missing the statutory deadline (30 days) can expose the landlord to statutory penalties. Maximum 1 month rent (separate from first/last month rent and key deposit). Must be held in separate interest-bearing MA bank account. Interest paid annually at lower of 5% or actual bank rate. Receipt required within 30 days. Violation: triple damages plus attorney fees.
Check Your Lease Against Massachusetts Law
Not sure whether your lease complies with Massachusetts law? Upload it and our analyzer flags problem clauses — deposit terms, entry rights, fees and prohibited provisions — using the same statute-backed database this page is generated from.
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More Massachusetts lease law guides
Educational information generated from state statute data — not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts for your specific situation.