What should I do if my landlord won't return my deposit in Massachusetts?

When a Massachusetts landlord goes quiet on your deposit, escalate in writing, in this order.

First, remove their easiest excuse: send your forwarding address in writing (text or email counts, but letter is better) and keep proof. Second, send a formal demand letter by certified mail. Cite M.G.L. c. 186, § 15B, state the 30 days deadline and the date it passed, itemize what you are owed, and give a firm response date, typically 10 to 14 days. Certified mail matters: it creates dated proof the landlord received your demand, which is exactly what a judge asks about first.

Third, know the leverage behind the letter: Massachusetts law allows up to 3x the deposit for wrongful withholding where bad faith is shown, which is why a landlord's lawyer will usually advise settling a clear case.

If the letter is ignored, District Court — Small Claims Session handles deposit disputes up to $7,000, no attorney required, and your certified-mail demand becomes your first exhibit. Most tenants never need the courtroom: the letter, done properly, is where the money moves.

The Massachusetts rules at a glance. Governing statute: M.G.L. c. 186, § 15B. Return deadline: 30 days. Statutory damages: up to 3x the deposit for wrongful withholding. Attorney's fees: recoverable in qualifying cases. Court for disputes: District Court — Small Claims Session, claims up to $7,000.