Nebraska Security Deposit Statute
Nebraska's main residential security deposit statute is Neb. Rev. Stat. Section 76-1416. It covers the deposit cap, the 14-day return and itemization deadline, mailing, and tenant remedies.
What the statute does
The statute limits how much security a landlord may demand, explains when the balance and written itemization must be delivered or mailed, and describes what a tenant may recover if the landlord fails to comply.
Key parts in plain English
- Deposit cap: generally one month's periodic rent, plus a pet deposit up to one-fourth of one month's rent when appropriate.
- Return deadline: the balance and written itemization must be delivered or mailed within 14 days after termination of the tenancy.
- Missing address rule: if no mailing address or instructions are provided, the landlord mails by first-class mail to the tenant's last-known mailing address.
- Deductions: unpaid rent and damages from tenant noncompliance with the rental agreement or Neb. Rev. Stat. Section 76-1421 are the core categories.
- Remedies: money due, court costs, reasonable attorney fees, and, for willful failures not in good faith, limited liquidated damages.
Why the written itemization matters
The written itemization is the landlord's explanation for keeping money. If the itemization is missing, late, or unsupported, the renter's written follow-up should ask for the balance, the itemization, and any documents supporting the deductions.
Official source
Source reviewed: April 2026.
Use this with the practical guides
A Nebraska-specific four-step notice sequence built around the statute, the 14-day deadline, itemization, and proof.
Get the Nebraska Recovery SystemImportant: This page provides general educational information and is not legal advice.