New Jersey deposit law, in plain English.

What your landlord has to do with your deposit after you move out. Each rule links to the official text.

• 30 days.

  Your landlord has 30 days after your lease ends to return your deposit plus your share of the interest, less allowed charges, by hand delivery or registered or certified mail.

  § 46:8-21.1

• Itemized.

  The interest and any deductions have to be itemized.

  § 46:8-21.1

• Double in court.

  If you win in court, the judge awards double what's owed, plus full costs, and may add lawyer's fees.

  § 46:8-21.1

• Who's covered.

  Owner-occupied buildings with two or fewer rental units are left out, unless the renter invoked the law in writing.

  § 46:8-26

Not covered here yet: Owner-occupied buildings with two or fewer rentals

Checked against the official text on October 19, 2026. General information, not legal advice. Cities can add their own rules.