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: August 30, 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 security-deposit rules are detailed and local/housing-specific facts can matter. 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 →