How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in New Jersey?

30 days after the lease terminates (N.J.S.A. 46:8-21.1).

What the statute says

The New Jersey letter restates the statute this way:

Under N.J.S.A. 46:8-21.1, within thirty days after the termination of the tenant's lease, the landlord must return, by personal delivery or by registered or certified mail, the security deposit plus the tenant's portion of the interest or earnings on it, less any charges expended in accordance with the terms of the contract, lease, or agreement. The interest and any deductions must be itemized, and the tenant must be notified of them by the same means.

Statute: N.J.S.A. 46:8-21.1. Read the statute.

Last reviewed: October 2026