New Jersey Law: Plain-English Guides

Key New Jersey facts

Security deposit deadline

Within 30 days after the lease ends, by personal delivery or registered or certified mail: the deposit plus the tenant's share of interest, minus lawful charges. N.J.S.A. 46:8-21.1

Eviction notice for unpaid rent

No notice to quit is required before filing for nonpayment of rent. The written notice requirement of N.J.S.A. N.J.S.A. 2A:18-61.1(a), 2A:18-61.2, 2A:18-55, 2A:42-10.16a, 46:8-49.3

Small claims limit

$5,000 for money claims, including a tenant's suit to recover a security deposit of $5,000 or less. Excluded: professional malpractice, child support or alimony, wills and inheritance, and claims for anything other… N.J. Ct. R. 6:1-2(a); NJ Courts, Small Claims Court

Small estate affidavit

Only when there is no will. If the total real and personal assets do not exceed $50,000, the surviving spouse, civil union partner or domestic partner may sign an affidavit before the county Surrogate (or the Superior… N.J.S. 3B:10-3, 3B:10-4 (as amended by P.L.2015, c.232)

Minimum wage

$15.92 per hour for most employers since January 1, 2026; $15.23 for seasonal employers and employers with fewer than 6 employees; New Jersey minimum wage chart (MW-570)

Final paycheck if fired

Final wages may be paid on the next regular payday for the pay period, whether the employee was fired or quit. New Jersey Wage and Hour worker FAQs

Time limit to sue on a debt

6 years for a contract claim, written or oral (express or implied, not under seal). N.J.S.A. 2A:14-1