New Hampshire Security Deposit Law (2026): Deadlines, Interest & Penalties
Wondering when your New Hampshire security deposit is due back? The statute — N.H. RSA 540-A:6-7 — sets the return window at 30 days from the end of your tenancy, and the landlord must pay interest of Interest required if deposit held 1+ year; tenant may request payout every 3 years in certain situations (interest required if deposit held 1+ year; tenant may request payout every 3 years). If the money doesn't arrive on time, the exposure for the landlord is 2x wrongfully withheld amount. The calculator above works out your deadline, interest, and penalty figures automatically.
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New Hampshire Deposit Rules at a Glance
| Return deadline | 30 days after move-out Standard deadline applies. |
|---|---|
| Interest on deposit | Conditional — Interest required if deposit held 1+ year; tenant may request payout every 3 years Interest required if deposit held 1+ year; tenant may request payout every 3 years |
| Separate account required | Yes |
| Deposit limit | 1 month's rent or $100, whichever greater |
| Penalty for violations | 2x wrongfully withheld amount |
New Hampshire Security Deposit FAQ
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in New Hampshire?
In New Hampshire, a landlord must return the security deposit within 30 days after the tenancy ends, under N.H. RSA 540-A:6-7. Note: Standard deadline applies..
Does my landlord owe me interest on my security deposit in New Hampshire?
Under N.H. RSA 540-A:6-7, a New Hampshire landlord must pay interest of Interest required if deposit held 1+ year; tenant may request payout every 3 years in certain situations (interest required if deposit held 1+ year; tenant may request payout every 3 years). Rate details: Interest required if deposit held 1+ year; tenant may request payout every 3 years.
What is the penalty if a landlord misses the deposit deadline in New Hampshire?
2x wrongfully withheld amount. The governing statute is N.H. RSA 540-A:6-7.
Is there a limit on how much a landlord can charge as a security deposit in New Hampshire?
Yes. In New Hampshire, the security deposit is limited to 1 month's rent or $100, whichever greater.
Does a New Hampshire landlord have to keep my deposit in a separate account?
Yes. New Hampshire law requires landlords to hold security deposits in a separate account, per N.H. RSA 540-A:6-7.
Are there exceptions to the 30-day deposit deadline in New Hampshire?
Yes — the deadline can vary: Standard deadline applies.. When in doubt, check the statute itself (N.H. RSA 540-A:6-7) or ask a local tenant-rights organization.
When does the interest requirement apply in New Hampshire?
Interest applies under these conditions: Interest required if deposit held 1+ year; tenant may request payout every 3 years. See N.H. RSA 540-A:6-7 for the full rule.
What can I do if my landlord won't return my deposit in New Hampshire?
First, send a written demand letter citing N.H. RSA 540-A:6-7 — our free generator creates one with your amounts filled in. If the landlord still doesn't pay, you can usually file in small claims court, where the penalty exposure is 2x wrongfully withheld amount.