Maryland security deposit law

Read from the statute itself on 2026-11-09. Statewide rule; a city or county can add its own.

Maximum deposit: 1 month of rent
Return deadline: 45 days
Interest: Required in some cases

One month's rent since October 2024 (previously 2); up to 2 months only for a tenant getting DHS utility assistance, by written agreement. Return within 45 days after the tenancy ends. Interest (greater of the 1-year Treasury rate or 1.5%) is owed on deposits of $50 or more held at least 6 months.

Source: Md. Code, Real Prop. § 8-203(b), (e) · read on 2026-11-09

Calculate it for your rent

State

Monthly rent ($)

Maximum legal deposit

$2,500

Up to 1 month of rent under Md. Code, Real Prop. § 8-203(b), (e).

Return deadline

45 days

45 days after the tenancy ends: the deposit with interest, less damage withheld, with an itemized written list. If the tenant was evicted or abandoned the unit, the clock starts at the tenant's written demand.

Interest required

Yes

In some situations — see the note

Maryland: One month's rent since October 2024 (previously 2); up to 2 months only for a tenant getting DHS utility assistance, by written agreement. Return within 45 days after the tenancy ends. Interest (greater of the 1-year Treasury rate or 1.5%) is owed on deposits of $50 or more held at least 6 months.

Source: Md. Code, Real Prop. § 8-203(b), (e) · read on 2026-11-09

Maryland: common questions

How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Maryland?

Up to 1 month of rent under Md. Code, Real Prop. § 8-203(b), (e). One month's rent since October 2024 (previously 2); up to 2 months only for a tenant getting DHS utility assistance, by written agreement. Return within 45 days after the tenancy ends. Interest (greater of the 1-year Treasury rate or 1.5%) is owed on deposits of $50 or more held at least 6 months.

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Maryland?

45 days. 45 days after the tenancy ends: the deposit with interest, less damage withheld, with an itemized written list. If the tenant was evicted or abandoned the unit, the clock starts at the tenant's written demand.

Not legal advice. Confirm with a local landlord-tenant attorney before relying on a figure.

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