Massachusetts Application fees & screening
How much can a landlord charge for a rental application fee in Massachusetts?
At or before move-in a landlord may collect only first month's rent, last month's rent, a security deposit and the cost of a new lock and key, so other upfront fees such as application fees are not allowed.
Verified Source: M.G.L. c. 186, § 15B(1)(b) · last checked 2026-10-15
Same topic in neighboring states
All Massachusetts landlord-tenant law · Massachusetts landlord FAQ · Security deposit limit · Deposit return deadline · Notice to enter · Required lease disclosures · Required disclosures (mold, lead, radon, bedbug, asbestos, flood zone)
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