How much a landlord can charge as a late fee in New York, whether there's a required grace period, and the rule that controls — verified July 2026.
$50 or 5% of the monthly rent, whichever is LESS. Lease terms setting a higher fee or shorter grace period are void as against public policy.
5 days (no fee unless rent is unpaid more than 5 days after due). Read N.Y. Real Prop. Law § 238-a(2) for the exact conditions.
Use our free late fee calculator to work out the charge from your lease terms, or compare every state in the late fee laws by state directory.
Yes, if the written lease provides for it. New York limits the amount: $50 or 5% of the monthly rent, whichever is LESS.. Lease terms setting a higher fee or shorter grace period are void as against public policy. Verified July 2026 against N.Y. Real Prop. Law § 238-a(2) — confirm with the current statute or an attorney.
$50 or 5% of the monthly rent, whichever is LESS.
5 days (no fee unless rent is unpaid more than 5 days after due).
N.Y. Real Prop. Law § 238-a(2). The source is published at https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/RPP/238-A.
No. This is a best-effort summary compiled from a cited source and verified July 2026. Late-fee rules change and some cities add stricter local caps a summary can't capture. Confirm with the current statute or a licensed attorney before relying on it.
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Free reference by Hatchkeep — property management software, free for 50 properties and unlimited units. Related: late fee calculator · deposit laws by state · rent receipt generator