Nebraska
Security deposits in Nebraska are regulated by Nebraska Revised Statutes § 76-1416 to § 76-1421. Certain municipalities may have local laws that supplement state regulations. To ensure full compliance, verify the regulations applicable in your area.
Nebraska: Key Points at a Glance
💰 Deposit Cap: 1x Monthly Rent
🔒 Holding Requirements: No
💸 Interest Required: No
📫 Return Window: 14 days
Maximum Security Deposit
Nebraska state law limits security deposits to one month’s rent. If the tenant has a pet, the landlord/property manager can collect an additional deposit up to 1/4 of one month’s rent.
Holding & Interest Requirements
Holding Requirements: Nebraska state law does not currently require security deposits to be held in a bank account within the state, in separate accounts, or in interest-bearing accounts.
Interest on Deposits: Nebraska state law does not currently require landlords/property managers to pay interest on security deposits.
Information Provided to Tenant: Nebraska state law does not currently require landlords/property managers to disclose where the security deposit is held.
Deposit Refunds
Timeline: Within 14 days after the tenant vacates the rental unit, the landlord/property manager must either (1) return the full security deposit, or (2) provide an itemized list of deductions together with the portion of the security deposit being returned to the tenant’s last known address, unless the tenant provides a specific mailing address or other delivery instructions. If the security deposit is returned to the landlord/property manager as undeliverable and is not claimed by the tenant for 1 year, it will be considered abandoned property and must be reported and paid to the State Treasurer.
Permissible Deductions: Landlords/property managers may deduct the following from security deposit funds:
- Unpaid rent
- Damages beyond normal wear and tear
- Damages resulting from the tenant’s breach of the lease
Penalties for Violations: Failure to return the security deposit or provide the itemized list of deductions as required may result in the landlord/property manager being liable for the amount withheld, up to 2x the security deposit, and reasonable attorney’s fees and court costs if the tenant wins in a lawsuit.
Sale of the Rental Property
If the property is sold, the landlord/property manager must transfer the security deposit to the new owner and provide written notice to the tenant.
Disclaimer
The Security Deposit Law Center is intended for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. We make no representations or warranties as to its accuracy and completeness. Security deposit and security deposit alternative laws vary by jurisdiction and may change. You should not rely on any information contained herein to act (or refrain from acting) without first consulting with qualified legal counsel.
