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New Mexico Security Deposit Timeline

Step-by-step deposit lifecycle from collection to return.

New Mexico law governs how landlords collect, hold, and return security deposits. The timeline below outlines the deposit lifecycle in chronological order — from move-in limits and pet deposits to deductions, itemization, interest, and the final return deadline.

Security Deposit Timeline

  1. Maximum Deposit

    1 month's rent (< 1 year); any amount if held in interest-bearing account (≥ 1 year)

  2. Pet Deposit Rules

    No separate statutory pet deposit limit.

  3. Allowed Deductions

    Damage beyond normal wear and tear, unpaid rent, unpaid utilities, and other costs associated with lease violations.

  4. Itemized Statement

    Yes — landlords must provide a written itemized list of any deductions.

  5. Interest Required

    Yes — landlords must pay interest on security deposits held.

  6. Return Deadline

    30 days

Related Resources

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