Massachusetts requires a separate interest-bearing account and detailed receipt/interest protections. The full cap and deduction list should be verified before relying on these figures.
Last verified: 2026-10-10
Max deposit
—
no statutory cap
Return deadline
30
days after tenancy ends
Interest required
Yes
paid to tenant
Separate account
Required
Maximum Security Deposit
No statutory maximum
Cap must be verified in statute or complete agency guidance.
Return Deadline
30 days
Standard return period after tenant moves out.
Interest on Deposit
Required
For tenancies of at least one year, tenant receives bank interest; 5% if funds were not deposited properly.
Separate Account Required
Required
Separate interest-bearing Massachusetts bank account; tenant funds remain tenant property.
⚖️ Permitted Deductions
Complete permitted-deduction list needs statutory verification.
📋 Official Source
The information on this page is sourced from the primary Massachusetts statute. Always verify against the current official text before making decisions.
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts does not set a statutory maximum for security deposits. Landlords and tenants may agree to any amount in the lease. Cap must be verified in statute or complete agency guidance.
How long does a landlord have to return the security deposit in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts landlords must return the security deposit — or provide a written itemized statement of deductions — within 30 days after the tenancy ends. Standard return period after tenant moves out.
Does Massachusetts require landlords to pay interest on security deposits?
Yes. Massachusetts requires landlords to pay interest on security deposits. For tenancies of at least one year, tenant receives bank interest; 5% if funds were not deposited properly.
Must Massachusetts landlords keep security deposits in a separate bank account?
Yes. Massachusetts requires landlords to hold security deposits in a separate account. Separate interest-bearing Massachusetts bank account; tenant funds remain tenant property.
Automate security deposit compliance
Property management software handles deposit tracking, deadline reminders, itemized deduction statements, and compliant separate account requirements automatically — so you never miss a Massachusetts deadline.
This page is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Security deposit laws change — always verify the current statute or consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts before making decisions. Official source: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/security-deposits-and-last-months-rent. Last reviewed: 2026-10-10.