NE · TenantClaim
Nebraska Security Deposit Return Laws & Calculator
Landlords generally have 14 calendar days to return a deposit under Nebraska Revised Statutes Section 76-1416. Use the calculator to check overdue status and estimated recovery.
Nebraska deposit calculator
Statutory math from Nebraska Revised Statutes Section 76-1416.
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 the deposit or provide an itemized accounting within 14 days may be liable for the amount due plus the tenant's damages and, in some cases, one month's rent as a statutory penalty (Neb. Rev. Stat. § 76-1416).
Multiplier: 0x
Wear and tear vs. unlawful deductions
Normal Wear & Tear
Landlord cannot deduct
- Faded or scuffed interior paint from ordinary occupancy in Nebraska
- 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 Nebraska Revised Statutes Section 76-1416
- Keeping any part of the deposit without sending the required itemized statement within 14 calendar days
- Deducting for conditions that existed before move-in or that the landlord was obligated to repair
Small claims court filing limits
$3,900
Claims above this Nebraska ceiling may need District or Civil Court, or a voluntary reduction to stay in small claims.
View Full Nebraska Small Claims Court & Official Form GuideNebraska security deposit FAQ
How long does a Nebraska landlord have to return my deposit?+
Nebraska generally requires return within 14 calendar days after move-out under Nebraska Revised Statutes Section 76-1416. 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 the deposit or provide an itemized accounting within 14 days may be liable for the amount due plus the tenant's damages and, in some cases, one month's rent as a statutory penalty (Neb. Rev. Stat. § 76-1416).
What is the Nebraska small claims limit?+
Most tenants can file in small claims court for up to $3,900. 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. Nebraska requires an itemized deduction statement. Withholding money without that statement is a common unlawful deduction.