New Jersey Application fees & screening

How much can a landlord charge for a rental application fee in New Jersey?

A landlord or agent may not charge an application or similar fee above $50 to apply to lease or sublease a residential rental (N.J.S.A. 46:8-18.1(a), L.2025, c.405). The cap does not apply to units in one- or two-family dwellings, and it is adjusted each year for inflation. Penalties run from $500 to $1,000 per offense.

Verified Source: N.J.S.A. 46:8-18.1 (L.2025, c.405) · last checked 2026-10-23