Security Deposit Laws in Nebraska
Nebraska caps security deposits at 1 month's rent (plus a pet deposit of up to a quarter month), requires return within 14 days after the tenancy ends, and requires 24 hours' written notice before landlord entry.
Last checked . General information, not legal advice.
Nebraska at a glance
- Security deposit limit
- 1 month's rent
- 1 month's rent (plus pet deposit up to 1/4 month)
- Deposit return deadline
- 14 days
- 14 days after termination of tenancy
- Interest on deposits
- Not required by state law
- Some cities have their own interest rules
- Notice before landlord entry
- 24 hours
- 24 hours' written notice stating purpose and time window
The rules in Nebraska
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Nebraska?
Nebraska limits security deposits to 1 month's rent (plus pet deposit up to 1/4 month).
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Nebraska?
Nebraska rule: 14 days after termination of tenancy.
Does a landlord have to pay interest on a security deposit in Nebraska?
No. Nebraska state law does not require landlords to pay interest on security deposits. Some cities have their own rules.
How much notice must a landlord give before entering a rental in Nebraska?
Nebraska rule: 24 hours' written notice stating purpose and time window.
Where do the Nebraska rules for residential leases come from?
They come from Neb. Rev. Stat. 76-1416 and Neb. Rev. Stat. 76-1423. We last checked them in October 2026. Laws change, so check the current statute before you rely on it.
How Nebraska compares
Nebraska is one of 30 jurisdictions that cap deposits by law. Its 14-day return deadline is shorter than the most common deadline of 30 days; no state requires a faster return.
What this means in practice
Landlords: state the deposit amount, where it is held and how it will be returned in the lease, and send the refund with any deductions in writing within the deadline.
Tenants: record the unit's condition with photos and a move-in checklist, keep your receipts, and give the landlord a forwarding address in writing when you move out.
Both sides: normal wear and tear is generally not deductible. Disputes over deductions usually go to small claims court.
General information, not legal advice. Laws change, and cities can add their own rules, so check the current statute before you rely on it.