Hawaii Law: Plain-English Guides

Key Hawaii facts

Security deposit deadline

14 days after the rental agreement ends. HRS § 521-44(c)

Eviction notice for unpaid rent

From Feb. 5, 2026: written notice of at least 10 calendar days to pay, on a form with required contents, with a copy provided to a state-funded mediation center. HRS § 521-68 (as amended by Act 278, SLH 2025)

Small claims limit

$5,000 for money claims. A tenant's claim for return of a residential security deposit has no dollar limit. HRS § 633-27(a); Hawaii State Judiciary, Small Claims Court Q&A

Small estate affidavit

Yes, for personal property. A successor can collect money owed to the decedent and the decedent's personal property by giving the holder a death certificate and an affidavit stating that the gross value of the… Haw. Rev. Stat. § 560:3-1201

Minimum wage

$16.00 per hour, effective January 1, 2026. HRS § 387-2(a); Hawaii Wage Standards Division, Minimum Wage

Final paycheck if fired

In full at the time of discharge, or, if immediate payment is not possible, no later than the next working day. HRS § 388-3(a)

Time limit to sue on a debt

6 years from when the claim arises, for an action to recover a debt founded on any contract, obligation or liability. HRS § 657-1(1)