New Jersey Security Deposit Limit
1.5 months' rentNew Jersey generally caps residential security deposits at 1.5 months' rent. A lease clause demanding more than that may be unenforceable — the FAQ below covers the exact conditions.
Educational information: generated from our New Jersey law database (last updated 2024-01-01). Not legal advice.
How New Jersey compares
30 of 51 US jurisdictions cap security deposits by statute; the other 21 set no statewide cap (local caps can still apply in some cities). Here is how New Jersey compares with other states in our database.
| State | Security Deposit Limit |
|---|---|
| New Jersey | 1.5 months' rent |
| New Mexico | 1 month's rent (leases under 1 year) |
| New York | 1 month's rent |
| North Carolina | 2 months' rent (varies by tenancy length) |
| North Dakota | 1 month's rent (unfurnished units) |
Frequently asked questions
- How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in New Jersey?
- New Jersey generally limits security deposits to 1.5 months' rent. Maximum 1.5 months rent. Must be held in interest-bearing account at NJ institution. Interest paid annually to tenant. Return within 30 days (5 business days for disasters). Landlords with 10+ units have special investment requirements.
- Does New Jersey require landlords to pay interest on security deposits?
- Yes — New Jersey requires landlords to pay interest on held security deposits in covered rentals. It is one of 14 US jurisdictions with an interest requirement.
- How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in New Jersey?
- New Jersey landlords generally must return the deposit within 30 days after move-out.
Check Your Lease Against New Jersey Law
Not sure whether your lease complies with New Jersey 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.
Analyze My Lease FreeEducational tool — not legal advice. First analysis is free, no signup required.
More New Jersey lease law guides
Educational information generated from state statute data — not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney in New Jersey for your specific situation.