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