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States/New Hampshire/Deposit Limit
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New Hampshire Security Deposit Limit

RSA 540-A:6(I)(a) says a landlord may not demand or receive a security deposit above one month’s rent or $100, whichever is greater, subject to the statute’s scope and rules for less-frequent rent payments.

Last reviewed: August 30, 20261 official source cited
Current cap1 month or $100

Whichever is greater.

Quarterly or less frequent rentSpecial rule

A written lease may require less-frequent rent, but the deposit in addition to initial rent may not exceed one month’s rent.

Separate deposit from rent

  • Monthly rent.
  • Initial rent payment.
  • Security deposit.
  • Other payments that may fall within the statutory deposit definition.
Use the current RSA, not a proposed 2027 change. The 2026 regulated-conditional-deposit legislation was vetoed. Educational information only.

Official sources

New Hampshire General CourtRSA 540-A:6 — Security Deposit Procedure ↗

Current official statute covering the deposit cap, receipt/5-day condition notice, trust handling and interest.

Related New Hampshire guides

Security Deposit →5-Day Condition Notice →30-Day Rule →Wear & Evidence →