One month's rent. The return rule is 14 days. The controlling text is Neb. Rev. Stat. § 76-1416.
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Nebraska's deposit ceiling
One month's rent.
The cap is one month's rent, plus up to a quarter-month's rent as an additional pet deposit.
Nebraska's return deadline
14 days.
You have 14 days after the tenancy ends and the tenant gives a forwarding address to return the deposit or deliver an itemized statement of deductions. It is one of the tighter clocks, so the inspection cannot wait.
The itemized statement rule
An itemized accounting of any deductions is required within 14 days of the tenant's demand and forwarding address. Tie each line to damage beyond ordinary wear.
Account and interest rules
Nebraska sets no separate-account or interest requirement. Hold the deposit apart from operating funds as a matter of practice.
Exposure for wrongful withholding
Wrongfully withheld amount plus fees.
A landlord who fails to comply is liable for the amount wrongfully withheld, and a court may add attorney fees. The 14-day clock, triggered by the tenant's demand, is the pressure point.
Compare Nebraska with neighboring states
- South Dakota: one month's rent; return rule: 14 days.
- Iowa: two months' rent; return rule: 30 days.
- Missouri: two months' rent; return rule: 30 days.
- Kansas: one month's rent; return rule: 30 days.
- Colorado: two months' rent; return rule: 30 days.
- Wyoming: no statutory limit; return rule: 30 days.
Verified against Neb. Rev. Stat. § 76-1416 and official state sources in July 2026. Before withholding money, check the current statute text or ask a local landlord-tenant attorney. General information, not legal advice.