New Mexico Deposit Return Deadline
30 daysUnder New Mexico 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 New Mexico law database (last updated 2024-01-01). Not legal advice.
How New Mexico compares
51 of 51 US jurisdictions set a statutory deadline for returning security deposits. Here is how New Mexico compares with other states in our database.
| State | Deposit Return Deadline |
|---|---|
| New Mexico | 30 days |
| New York | 14 days |
| North Carolina | 30–60 days |
| North Dakota | 30 days |
| Ohio | 30 days |
Frequently asked questions
- How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in New Mexico?
- Generally 30 days after move-out. Maximum 1 month rent for leases under 1 year. No limit for 1 year+ leases but interest required on amount exceeding 1 month. Return within 30 days. Bad faith retention: $250 penalty.
- Can a New Mexico 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 New Mexico landlord misses the deposit return deadline?
- Missing the statutory deadline (30 days) can expose the landlord to statutory penalties. Maximum 1 month rent for leases under 1 year. No limit for 1 year+ leases but interest required on amount exceeding 1 month. Return within 30 days. Bad faith retention: $250 penalty.
Check Your Lease Against New Mexico Law
Not sure whether your lease complies with New Mexico 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 Mexico lease law guides
Educational information generated from state statute data — not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney in New Mexico for your specific situation.