Massachusetts 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: 30 days
Interest: Required in some cases

Upfront charges: at most first and last month's rent, a deposit of one month's rent and the lock/key cost. Interest (5%/yr or the lesser bank rate) is owed on a deposit held 1 year or more; return within thirty days after the tenancy ends. Noncompliance with the strict account and receipt rules: treble damages.

Source: M.G.L. c. 186, § 15B(1)(b), (3)(b), (4) · 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 M.G.L. c. 186, § 15B(1)(b), (3)(b), (4).

Return deadline

30 days

Within 30 days after the tenancy ends: the deposit or its balance, any interest owed, and an itemized list of any damage deducted.

Interest required

Yes

In some situations — see the note

Massachusetts: Upfront charges: at most first and last month's rent, a deposit of one month's rent and the lock/key cost. Interest (5%/yr or the lesser bank rate) is owed on a deposit held 1 year or more; return within thirty days after the tenancy ends. Noncompliance with the strict account and receipt rules: treble damages.

Source: M.G.L. c. 186, § 15B(1)(b), (3)(b), (4) · read on 2026-11-09

Massachusetts: common questions

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

Up to 1 month of rent under M.G.L. c. 186, § 15B(1)(b), (3)(b), (4). Upfront charges: at most first and last month's rent, a deposit of one month's rent and the lock/key cost. Interest (5%/yr or the lesser bank rate) is owed on a deposit held 1 year or more; return within thirty days after the tenancy ends. Noncompliance with the strict account and receipt rules: treble damages.

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

30 days. Within 30 days after the tenancy ends: the deposit or its balance, any interest owed, and an itemized list of any damage deducted.

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

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<p style="font-size:13px;margin:4px 0 0">Free <a href="https://www.proprietio.com/tools/security-deposit-calculator">security deposit calculator by state</a> by Proprietio.</p>