Massachusetts · Security deposit

How big can the deposit be in Massachusetts?

Max 1 month's rent.

Why, and the exact law

It must sit in a separate bank account and come back within 30 days.

From the Massachusetts Legislature, read Oct 1, 2026.
Show the law

“a security deposit equal to the first month's rent provided that such security deposit is deposited as required by subsection (3) and that the tenant is given the statement of condition as required by subsection (2)”

G.L. c. 186, § 15B · malegislature.gov · found word for word in the source

Moved out? Count the days

In Massachusetts the landlord has 30 days to return it.

Who can help

  1. Get free legal helpThey can help you ask for it, or go to small claims court.MassLegalHelp
  2. Find a lawyerReferral service of the State Bar.Massachusetts Bar lawyer referral service
Every rule here, word for word (1)

This page covers state law only. Cities with their own rules have their own pages.

Massachusetts lawIn force

Massachusetts security deposit law

How big can the deposit be?

Max 1 month's rent.

It must sit in a separate bank account and come back within 30 days.

Who it covers

  • Exemptions: Vacation or recreational tenancies of 100 days or less.
In force since
Aug 1, 2025
The law, word for word

“a security deposit equal to the first month's rent provided that such security deposit is deposited as required by subsection (3) and that the tenant is given the statement of condition as required by subsection (2)”

G.L. c. 186, § 15B · malegislature.gov · Retrieved Oct 1, 2026

Quote checked word for word

More about Massachusetts

Rental law by cityWhat's changing in Massachusetts

Information about the law, not legal advice.