Security deposit laws by state › Massachusetts

Massachusetts Security Deposit Law and Move-In Costs (2026)

Massachusetts caps the security deposit at 1 month's rent and requires it back within 30 days with an itemized statement of deductions.

The rules

  • Maximum deposit: 1 month's rent — Last month's rent may be collected in addition to the deposit. Landlords may also charge a lock/key change fee; nothing else at move-in.
  • Return deadline: 30 days.
  • Interest: Required. 5% or the bank rate, paid annually and at termination.
  • Separate account: Required.
  • Itemized deductions: Required with the refund.
  • Application fee: Prohibited (landlords may not charge application fees)..

Statute: M.G.L. c.186 §15B. As of October 25, 2026.

Move-in cash at $1,500/month

First month's rent$1,500
Security deposit (at the cap)$1,500
Application fee$40
Utilities and setup$150
Movers$400
Renters insurance$15
Total$3,605

The most a Massachusetts landlord may demand as a deposit on this rent is $1,500.

Run your own numbers for Massachusetts

Getting the deposit back

Document the unit's condition at move-in with dated photos, give proper notice before leaving, return the keys, and hand the landlord a forwarding address in writing — in Massachusetts and most states the return clock does not start until the landlord can reach you. Normal wear and tear cannot be deducted; damage, cleaning beyond normal use and unpaid rent can. If the deadline passes without a refund or itemized statement, small-claims court is the usual remedy, and many states add penalties of two or three times the deposit for bad-faith withholding.

Local rules

Cities and counties can add requirements on top of Massachusetts law — interest, caps, inspection rights, fee limits. Check your city's housing or rental-standards office before signing.

Sources

Last reviewed October 25, 2026.