MD · Security Deposit Law

Maryland Security Deposit Law

Maryland's general cap is one month. Refunds must include required interest and be made within 45 days after tenancy ends.

Last verified: 2026-10-10

Max deposit
1
months' rent
Return deadline
45
days after tenancy ends
Interest required
Yes
paid to tenant
Separate account
—
statute silent
Maximum Security Deposit
1 month's rent
General cap; exceptions exist in paragraph (b)(2).
Return Deadline
45 days
After tenancy ends; refund includes required interest less lawful deductions.
Interest on Deposit
Required
Simple interest using greater of annual one-year Treasury yield or 1.5%.
Separate Account Required
Statute silent
Full statutory account/bond provisions need review.

⚖️ Permitted Deductions

Rent; breach-related damage; premises/appliance/furnishing damage; full withholding rules need review.

📋 Official Source

The information on this page is sourced from the primary Maryland statute. Always verify against the current official text before making decisions.

↗ View official statute

Frequently Asked Questions

How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Maryland?
Maryland law limits security deposits to 1 month's rent. General cap; exceptions exist in paragraph (b)(2).
How long does a landlord have to return the security deposit in Maryland?
Maryland landlords must return the security deposit — or provide a written itemized statement of deductions — within 45 days after the tenancy ends. After tenancy ends; refund includes required interest less lawful deductions.
Does Maryland require landlords to pay interest on security deposits?
Yes. Maryland requires landlords to pay interest on security deposits. Simple interest using greater of annual one-year Treasury yield or 1.5%.
Must Maryland landlords keep security deposits in a separate bank account?
Maryland's statute does not clearly require a separate account for security deposits. Full statutory account/bond provisions need review.

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 Maryland deadline.

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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 Maryland before making decisions. Official source: https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=grp&section=8-203. Last reviewed: 2026-10-10.