MA · TenantClaim
Massachusetts Security Deposit Return Laws & Calculator
Landlords generally have 30 calendar days to return a deposit under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 186 Section 15B. Use the calculator to check overdue status and estimated recovery.
Massachusetts deposit calculator
Statutory math from Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 186 Section 15B.
Ready to Calculate Your Rights
Enter your lease dates and deposit amounts to instantly evaluate:
- State statutory return deadline & overdue status
- Treble (3x) or double (2x) bad-faith penalty eligibility
- Small claims court limit & demand letter generation
Bad-faith penalties
A landlord who fails to return a deposit or comply with the itemization and accounting rules may be liable for three times the amount of the deposit plus 5% interest and attorney's fees (Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 186 § 15B).
Multiplier: 3x
Wear and tear vs. unlawful deductions
Normal Wear & Tear
Landlord cannot deduct
- Faded or scuffed interior paint from ordinary occupancy in Massachusetts
- Carpet wear or flattening in high-traffic pathways from normal foot traffic
- Small nail or pin holes from hanging pictures or curtains
Unlawful Deductions
These charges are illegal
- Charging for ordinary wear and tear instead of damage beyond normal use under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 186 Section 15B
- Keeping any part of the deposit without sending the required itemized statement within 30 calendar days
- Deducting for conditions that existed before move-in or that the landlord was obligated to repair
Small claims court filing limits
$7,000
Claims above this Massachusetts ceiling may need District or Civil Court, or a voluntary reduction to stay in small claims.
View Full Massachusetts Small Claims Court & Official Form GuideMassachusetts security deposit FAQ
How long does a Massachusetts landlord have to return my deposit?+
Massachusetts generally requires return within 30 calendar days after move-out under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 186 Section 15B. If the deadline falls on a weekend, TenantClaim rolls it to the next Monday.
What happens if the landlord keeps my deposit in bad faith?+
A landlord who fails to return a deposit or comply with the itemization and accounting rules may be liable for three times the amount of the deposit plus 5% interest and attorney's fees (Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 186 § 15B).
What is the Massachusetts small claims limit?+
Most tenants can file in small claims court for up to $7,000. Larger recoveries may need District or Civil Court, or a voluntary reduction of the claim.
Does the landlord have to send an itemized list?+
Yes. Massachusetts requires an itemized deduction statement. Withholding money without that statement is a common unlawful deduction.