Your landlord generally has 30 days in Massachusetts to return your security deposit or any balance after the tenancy ends. DepositsBack.app helps you take the next step: a state-specific security deposit notice sent by USPS Certified Mail, with tracking that stays attached to your case. This page summarizes general information from Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 186 § 15B and official state sources.
If your landlord kept some of your deposit — or all of it — a certified notice asks for it back on paper, with a record attached. Enter your original deposit amount below to check your state’s timeline.
The general deadline is 30 days. Landlords must return the security deposit or any balance within 30 days after the tenancy ends.
You may still be able to send a notice. We show general state information and official sources so you can review your situation and decide your next step.
The Complete Case Bundle includes your notices, USPS Certified Mail history, case summary, evidence checklist, attorney handoff sheet, and official state resources — all in one downloadable ZIP.
If the 30-day deadline passes without a return of your deposit, or the landlord failed to keep it in a separate account or give a timely sworn itemized statement, your records — DepositsBack.app notice, USPS Certified Mail delivery confirmation, and any response uploaded to your case — document the timeline. Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 186 § 15B, those violations entitle a tenant to three times the deposit or balance owed, plus 5% interest, court costs, and reasonable attorney fees; Massachusetts small-claims court generally hears disputes up to $7,000. You can review your situation alongside the statute and official state resources, and decide whether to consult a Massachusetts attorney or proceed with self-help next steps.