Nebraska Security Deposit Rules
Landlord obligations under Neb. Rev. Stat. § 76-1416
Deposit limit
1 month's periodic rent
1 month's rent, plus a pet deposit of up to one-quarter of a month "when appropriate"
How the deposit limit varies
| Scenario | Maximum deposit | Condition |
|---|---|---|
| Base deposit | 1 month's periodic rent | — |
| Pet deposit add-on | ¼ of 1 month's periodic rent | may be demanded "when appropriate" (tenant with a pet), in addition to the base deposit (§ 76-1416(1)) |
- The cap applies to "security, however denominated" — any deposit-like charge regardless of label.
- Housing agencies organized under the Nebraska Housing Agency Act are exempt from the cap (§ 76-1416(1)).
- Verified unamended since Laws 2021, LB532. LB1007 (109th Leg., pending at verification) would add a pre-signing refund rule without touching the cap amounts.
Source: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 76-1416(1) (1 month + ¼-month pet deposit), for the figures shown above. This tool is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a Nebraska attorney for specific guidance.
Deposit limit verified against Neb. Rev. Stat. § 76-1416(1) (1 month + ¼-month pet deposit) as of Jul 27, 2026.