New Hampshire Security Deposit Return Deadline
- Penalty for missing it
- 2x (twice the deposit) (willful failure to comply — up to 2x the deposit plus reasonable attorney's fees (RSA 540-A:8))
- The law
- RSA 540-A:7 (penalty at RSA 540-A:8)
The rule
30 days after termination of tenancy, provided the tenant gave a forwarding address. Landlord must provide a written itemized list of deductions (RSA 540-A:7).
- Deposit cap: 1 month's rent or $100, whichever is greater. Owner-occupied buildings with 5 or fewer units are exempt.
- Interest may be required on deposits held over a year.
- New Hampshire small claims: $10,000.
What happens if your landlord misses the deadline
In New Hampshire, a missed deadline seriously weakens your landlord's position. Depending on the circumstances, they may forfeit the right to deduct anything at all, owe you the penalty above, or both. The exact consequence depends on RSA 540-A:7 (penalty at RSA 540-A:8) and whether they provided the required itemized statement. Don't assume the money is gone — a missed deadline is often the strongest fact pattern for getting it back.
Your next steps in New Hampshire
- Confirm the clock ran. Make sure you provided a forwarding address in writing, and that the full deadline has passed.
- Send a demand letter citing RSA 540-A:7 (penalty at RSA 540-A:8) and the 2x (twice the deposit) penalty. Most landlords pay at this stage.
- If they ignore it, file in small claims. See our walkthrough for the process.
New Hampshire deposit questions
How long does my New Hampshire landlord have to return my deposit?
30 days after termination of tenancy, provided the tenant gave a forwarding address. Landlord must provide a written itemized list of deductions (RSA 540-A:7).
What if my landlord never sends an itemized list of deductions?
In most states — including New Hampshire — failing to provide the required itemized statement within the deadline forfeits the landlord's right to withhold anything. Check RSA 540-A:7 (penalty at RSA 540-A:8) for the exact rule.
Can I get more than my deposit back in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire law allows 2x (twice the deposit) for willful failure to comply — up to 2x the deposit plus reasonable attorney's fees (RSA 540-A:8). See our penalties guide for how judges apply this.
Source: https://rapideyeinspections.com/blog/security-deposit-return-guide/ · Verified 2026-10-09