New Jersey Security Deposit Law (2026): Limit & Deadline

Maximum deposit

1.5 months of rent

Return deadline

30 days

Controlling statute

N.J. Stat. Ann. § 46:8-21.2 (limit) & § 46:8-21.1 (return)

What does that mean in dollars? Enter your monthly rent:

Maximum security deposit in New Jersey

1.5 months of rent (annual additional increases capped at 10%). Return + itemized interest/deductions due in 30 days; 5 days for displaced tenants. Double-damages penalty for wrongful withholding.

Returning the deposit

30 days (5 days if tenant displaced by fire/flood/condemnation/evacuation). Read N.J. Stat. Ann. § 46:8-21.2 (limit) & § 46:8-21.1 (return) for the exact triggers, itemization requirements, and penalties for late or bad-faith withholding.

Compare with other states

See the full sortable table in our free security deposit limits by state tool, or jump to another state below.

Frequently asked questions

What is the maximum security deposit a landlord can charge in New Jersey?

1.5 months of rent (annual additional increases capped at 10%). Return + itemized interest/deductions due in 30 days; 5 days for displaced tenants. Double-damages penalty for wrongful withholding. This is a best-effort summary verified against the official statute (N.J. Stat. Ann. § 46:8-21.2 (limit) & § 46:8-21.1 (return)) on June 7, 2026 — always confirm with the current law or an attorney.

When must a landlord return a security deposit in New Jersey?

30 days (5 days if tenant displaced by fire/flood/condemnation/evacuation). See N.J. Stat. Ann. § 46:8-21.2 (limit) & § 46:8-21.1 (return) for the exact conditions and any itemization requirements.

What statute governs security deposits in New Jersey?

N.J. Stat. Ann. § 46:8-21.2 (limit) & § 46:8-21.1 (return). The official text is published by the state at https://www.nj.gov/dca/codes/publications/pdf_lti/sdepsit_law.pdf.

Is this legal advice?

No. This page is a best-effort summary compiled from primary legal authority and verified on June 7, 2026. Statutes change, and many states use tiers or exceptions a summary can't capture. Confirm with the current statute or a licensed attorney before relying on it.

New Jersey security deposit law