Massachusetts Security Deposit Rules (2026)

Massachusetts has one of the most detailed statewide security-deposit systems: the security deposit may not exceed one month’s rent, must be handled in a separate interest-bearing Massachusetts account, comes with receipt and condition-statement duties, and must generally be returned or properly itemized within 30 days.

Last reviewed: September 1, 20263 official sources cited

Deposit maximum1 month’s rent

M.G.L. c.186 § 15B.

Return / deductions30 days

After termination of occupancy/end of tenancy under § 15B.

Damage listSworn + precise

Damage deductions require an itemized list sworn under pains and penalties of perjury.

Cost evidenceRequired

Written evidence such as estimates, bills, invoices or receipts.

What to keep

Initial security-deposit receipt.
Bank/depository information and interest records.
Statement of condition and any tenant corrections.
Move-out photos.
Sworn damage list and cost evidence.
Refund check and delivery record.

Compare this topic across states

Security Deposit Rules by State
Compare the full security-deposit framework across all states.

Educational information only. Massachusetts rental rules can depend on the exact tenancy, property, billing model and local enforcement facts. This page does not provide legal advice.

Official sources

Massachusetts LegislatureMassachusetts General Laws c.186 § 15B ↗

Primary law for security-deposit amount, receipts, statement of condition, banking, interest, deductions and 30-day return.

Mass.govSecurity deposits and last month’s rent ↗

Official Massachusetts consumer guidance on deposit limits, banking, interest and move-out deductions.

Mass.govMandatory statement of condition ↗

Official guidance on move-in condition statements and damage deductions.

Related Massachusetts guides

One-Month Limit →30-Day Rule →Statement of Condition →Damage Itemization →