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How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in New Jersey?
Short answer
At a glance: 30 days
Return deposit plus interest, with itemized deductions, within 30 days after tenancy ends
Deadline: Within 30 days after move-out
Within 30 days after the tenancy ends, return the deposit plus interest minus lawful deductions by personal delivery, registered or certified mail, with an itemized list of deductions sent by registered or certified mail.
"Within 30 days after the termination of a tenancy, a landlord must return the security deposit, plus interest earned less deductions, to the tenant (N.J.S.A. 46:8-21.1)." nj.gov
"an itemized list of these deductions must also be sent to the tenant by registered or certified mail within 30 days from the termination of the tenancy." nj.gov
Return deposit plus interest, with itemized deductions, within 30 days after tenancy ends Verified
Deadline: Within 30 days after move-out
Within 30 days after the tenancy ends, return the deposit plus interest minus lawful deductions by personal delivery, registered or certified mail, with an itemized list of deductions sent by registered or certified mail.
Applies to: any number of units, some owner-occupied buildings exempt, when you hold a security deposit · Layer: New Jersey · Topic: Security deposit return
Who it covers: Security Deposit Law does not apply to owner-occupied 2- or 3-family dwellings unless the tenant makes a written request (applies 30 days later) (N.J.S.A. 46:8-26). 5 business days if the tenant is displaced by fire, flood, condemnation or evacuation.
"Within 30 days after the termination of a tenancy, a landlord must return the security deposit, plus interest earned less deductions, to the tenant (N.J.S.A. 46:8-21.1)." nj.gov
"an itemized list of these deductions must also be sent to the tenant by registered or certified mail within 30 days from the termination of the tenancy." nj.gov
Notes: N.J.S.A. 46:8-21.1, summarized in DCA's Truth in Renting guide. Statute text on njleg.gov not snapshotted. If a tenant breaks the lease, the 30 days start when the unit is re-rented or the lease expires, whichever is first. Tenant may sue for double the amount wrongfully withheld.
Last verified 2026-10-20 · Confidence: medium · Status: verified · Report a correction