New Jersey Security Deposit Law (2026): Deadlines, Interest & Penalties
New Jersey law gives landlords a hard deadline: the security deposit must be returned within 30 days of move-out, per N.J.S.A. 46:8-19 to -26. On top of the deposit itself, the landlord must pay interest of Deposit must be in interest-bearing account (banking institution); interest paid/credited annually on the deposit. Landlords who blow the deadline face 2x wrongfully withheld + costs (Rent Security Deposit Act). Enter your deposit details above to check your numbers.
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New Jersey Deposit Rules at a Glance
| Return deadline | 30 days after move-out Standard deadline applies. |
|---|---|
| Interest on deposit | Deposit must be in interest-bearing account (banking institution); interest paid/credited annually |
| Separate account required | Yes |
| Deposit limit | 1.5 months' rent |
| Penalty for violations | 2x wrongfully withheld + costs (Rent Security Deposit Act) Attorney fees / court costs may also be recoverable |
New Jersey Security Deposit FAQ
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, a landlord must return the security deposit within 30 days after the tenancy ends, under N.J.S.A. 46:8-19 to -26. Note: Standard deadline applies..
Does my landlord owe me interest on my security deposit in New Jersey?
Under N.J.S.A. 46:8-19 to -26, a New Jersey landlord must pay interest of Deposit must be in interest-bearing account (banking institution); interest paid/credited annually on the deposit. Rate details: Deposit must be in interest-bearing account (banking institution); interest paid/credited annually.
What is the penalty if a landlord misses the deposit deadline in New Jersey?
2x wrongfully withheld + costs (Rent Security Deposit Act). The tenant may also be able to recover attorney fees or court costs. The governing statute is N.J.S.A. 46:8-19 to -26.
Is there a limit on how much a landlord can charge as a security deposit in New Jersey?
Yes. In New Jersey, the security deposit is limited to 1.5 months' rent.
Does a New Jersey landlord have to keep my deposit in a separate account?
Yes. New Jersey law requires landlords to hold security deposits in a separate account, per N.J.S.A. 46:8-19 to -26.
Are there exceptions to the 30-day deposit deadline in New Jersey?
Yes — the deadline can vary: Standard deadline applies.. When in doubt, check the statute itself (N.J.S.A. 46:8-19 to -26) or ask a local tenant-rights organization.
What can I do if my landlord won't return my deposit in New Jersey?
First, send a written demand letter citing N.J.S.A. 46:8-19 to -26 — 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 + costs (rent security deposit act).