N.J.S.A. 46:8-21.1 - Failure to return within 30 days can result in double damages and court costs: New Jersey statute explainer

Plain-English explanation of bad faith penalties with actionable next steps.

Reviewed: 2026-03-03

Reviewer: ReclaimDeposit legal research team

Deadline context

30 days

Penalty context

2x damages

Primary statute

N.J.S.A. 46:8-21.1 et seq.

How to use this statute in your case

Quick answers to the questions renters usually have before citing this statute in a demand letter or court filing.

This section governs bad faith penalties and should be cited when disputing wrongful withholding under New Jersey law.

30 days after termination of tenancy or delivery of premises, whichever is later (30 days).

Double amount wrongfully withheld + court costs.

Turn this citation into an actionable demand and timeline.

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers to the questions renters usually have before citing this statute in a demand letter or court filing.

This section governs bad faith penalties and should be cited when disputing wrongful withholding under New Jersey law.

30 days after termination of tenancy or delivery of premises, whichever is later (30 days).

Double amount wrongfully withheld + court costs.