Security Deposit
A security deposit is an upfront payment by a tenant to the landlord, held as protection against property damage or unpaid rent. In New York State, the maximum security deposit is limited to one month's rent (as of 2019 Housing Stability and Tenant Protection Act). Landlords must hold deposits in interest-bearing accounts and return them within 14 days of lease termination, minus documented deductions. In other states, deposits may equal 1-3 months' rent. For foreign renters without US credit history, some landlords may request additional upfront rent payments instead of higher deposits.
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