Luneford

Get your security deposit back in Essex County, New Jersey

New Jersey landlords must return your deposit, or a written list of deductions, within 30 days after you move out. For $29, Luneford writes your demand letter citing the law, with clear steps to mail it and, if needed, to file in Essex County small claims court.

Start now – $29

What you get

  • A ready-to-sign demand letter that cites N.J.S.A. 46:8-21.1
  • Steps to send it by certified mail and track the 10-day deadline
  • If you are not paid: how to file small claims in your county
  • A checklist of proof to keep

How it works

  1. Answer simple questions online, in English or Spanish (about 15 minutes).
  2. Review your answers and pay securely.
  3. Download your package right away and follow the plain steps to file it yourself.

Where to file in Essex County

Special Civil Part, Small Claims Section
Essex County Historic Courthouse, 470 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Newark, NJ 07102
2nd floor
Phone: 973-776-9300
Official court page

Call ahead: hours, rooms and fees can change. Source: New Jersey Courts directory.

This is not the right service if

  • You still live in the rental
  • The rental is commercial property

More help in Essex County

Serving all 22 towns in Essex County

Belleville Township, Bloomfield Township, Caldwell Borough, Cedar Grove Township, City of Orange Township, East Orange, Essex Fells Borough, Fairfield Township, Glen Ridge Borough, Irvington Township, Livingston Township, Maplewood Township, Millburn Township, Montclair Township, Newark, North Caldwell Borough, Nutley Township, Roseland Borough, South Orange Village, Verona Township, West Caldwell Township, West Orange Township

Questions

How long does a NJ landlord have to return a security deposit?

30 days after the tenancy ends, with any interest, minus deductions listed in writing. If a deposit is wrongfully kept, a tenant may ask the court for double the amount withheld.

Where do I sue for my deposit in Essex County?

If the rental is in Essex County, at the Special Civil Part, Small Claims Section: Essex County Historic Courthouse, 470 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Newark, NJ 07102. Phone 973-776-9300.

Do I need a lawyer?

No. Many tenants send a demand letter first and use small claims court if needed. Luneford's letter package costs $29.

Luneford is not a law firm and does not give legal advice. We prepare documents from your answers and explain the steps; you file them yourself.