Massachusetts Law: Plain-English Guides

Key Massachusetts facts

Security deposit deadline

30 days after the tenancy ends (end of a tenancy at will or end of the lease term). The landlord must return the deposit, or whatever balance remains, with any accrued interest. G.L. c. 186, § 15B(4)

Eviction notice for unpaid rent

14 days' written notice to quit. For tenants at will: a tenant who has not received a similar notice in the previous 12 months can cure by paying the full rent due within 10 days after receiving the notice, and the… G.L. c. 186, §§ 11, 12, 31

Small claims limit

$7,000 in debt or damages for contract or tort claims (not slander or libel). There is no limit for property damage caused by a motor vehicle. G.L. c. 218, § 21

Small estate affidavit

Voluntary administration: if a Massachusetts resident left only personal property (no real estate) worth no more than $25,000, plus a motor vehicle of any value, an interested person may file a sworn voluntary personal… M.G.L. c. 190B, § 3-1201

Cost of a protective order

No filing fee for a 209A or 258E complaint, and no charge to the plaintiff for certified copies of orders. M.G.L. c. 209A, §3; c. 258E, §3(c)

Minimum wage

$15.00 per hour. The state rate must always be at least 50 cents above the federal minimum wage. M.G.L. c. 151, §1

Final paycheck if fired

Full wages are due on the day of discharge. M.G.L. c. 149, §148

Time limit to sue on a debt

6 years for contract actions, express or implied, written or oral. 20 years for contracts under seal. M.G.L. c. 260, § 2; c. 260, § 1