Can my landlord require both last month's rent and a security deposit?

No. In most cases, Maine law only allows up to one month’s rent in advance, plus a separate security deposit not exceeding one month’s rent.

How quickly must excess prepaid rent be refunded in Maine?

Excess prepaid rent should be refunded as soon as the landlord is aware or at the end of tenancy for any unused portion.

What if my landlord won’t give me a rent receipt?

You have the right to request a receipt for any cash rent payment. If refused, document your request and seek support from Maine District Court or legal aid.

Can a landlord use prepaid rent for repairs?

No. Prepaid rent must only be used for future rent payments, not for property repairs. Repairs are covered by the security deposit.

Who can help if my landlord violates Maine's prepaid rent laws?

Contact the Maine District Court, Pine Tree Legal Assistance, or Maine State Housing Authority for help with violations.

Maine Renters’ Guide to Prepaid Rent Rules

Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Maine published: June 21, 2025

Paying rent upfront can offer peace of mind, but Maine has clear rules guiding how much rent can be required in advance, how it must be handled by landlords, and what your rights are as a tenant. This guide explains Maine prepaid rent regulations and points you to official resources and forms to protect your interests as a renter.

What Is Prepaid Rent?

Prepaid rent is any sum paid before it is due, typically at the start of a lease. While paying the first month's rent is standard, some landlords may request additional months in advance. Maine law limits this practice to ensure tenants' money is protected.

Maine’s Prepaid Rent Laws: Key Points

Maximum advance: Landlords can only require up to one month's rent in advance (not including a security deposit). For example, a landlord may not ask for "first, last, and security" if that totals more than two months’ rent in the first payment.^[1]
Security deposit vs. prepaid rent: Prepaid rent and the security deposit are treated separately under Maine law. The security deposit also cannot exceed one month's rent for most tenants.^[1]
Receipts are required: If you pay cash for prepaid rent, your landlord must provide a receipt on request.^[2]
Return of overpayments: If you accidentally pay more rent in advance than allowed, you are entitled to a refund.

In summary: Maine limits what landlords can require in advance to help tenants maintain financial stability and avoid unfair barriers to rental housing.

When and How Do Landlords Handle Prepaid Rent?

Landlords must use your prepaid rent for your future rental payments, not as security for damages or cleaning. At the end of your lease, any leftover prepaid rent—not already applied to rent owed—should be returned to you.

Landlords cannot use prepaid rent as a penalty or to cover property damage. Security deposits are the proper channel for damage, not prepaid rent.
If you move out before using all of your prepaid rent (for example, your lease ends early by mutual agreement), your landlord must refund whatever portion hasn't been applied to owed rent.

Required Forms: Receipts for Prepaid Rent

Maine does not have a separate government-issued "prepaid rent form," but you have the right to request a Rent Payment Receipt if you pay by cash or money order.

Form Name: Receipt for Rent Payment
When Used: Whenever you pay all or part of your rent (including prepaid rent) by cash, you can request a receipt. For instance, if you pay both first month's rent and one additional month in advance as required by your landlord, ask for a separate receipt showing each payment.
Where to Find: You can reference official guidance on payment receipts in 14 M.R.S. § 6030.^[2]

Tip: Always keep receipts for all rent payments, including those made in advance, as proof of compliance with your lease.

What to Do If Your Landlord Demands Excess Prepaid Rent

If your landlord requests more prepaid rent than allowed by law:

Politely inform them of the limit (one month’s rent in advance, apart from the security deposit).
If they refuse to adjust their request, you have a right to file a complaint with Maine's residential tenancies tribunal or seek advice from state housing authorities.

Keep communication in writing and save copies of all correspondence and receipts. This can help resolve disputes faster.

Which Tribunal Handles Rent Disputes in Maine?

Residential tenancy matters, including prepaid rent and deposit issues, are addressed by the Maine District Court.^[3] You may file a small claims case for refund disputes or other rent-related matters if negotiation fails.

Relevant Maine Legislation

Summary: Maine's prepaid rent laws are clear—landlords can’t demand more than one month’s rent in advance, and you are protected by required receipts and refund rules if overpayment occurs.

FAQ: Prepaid Rent Rules in Maine

Can my landlord require both last month's rent and a security deposit?
In most cases, no. Maine law treats prepaid rent and the security deposit separately, and each cannot exceed one month’s rent. A landlord cannot demand three months’ rent up front.
How quickly must excess prepaid rent be refunded in Maine?
Excess prepaid rent should be returned as soon as the landlord recognizes the overpayment, or immediately when the tenancy ends and unused prepaid rent remains.
What if my landlord won’t give me a rent receipt?
Maine law requires landlords to provide a receipt for any cash rent payment if requested. If your landlord refuses, document your request and seek assistance from the District Court or legal services.
Can a landlord use prepaid rent for repairs?
No, prepaid rent can only be applied to upcoming rent. Damage repair costs should be deducted from the security deposit, not your advance rent.
Who can help if my landlord violates Maine's prepaid rent laws?
The Maine District Court can assist with disputes. You may also contact Pine Tree Legal Assistance or the Maine State Housing Authority for guidance.

Conclusion: Maine Prepaid Rent—What Renters Should Remember

Maine landlords can only require up to one month’s rent in advance, plus a separate security deposit.
Always ask for (and save) receipts for prepaid rent payments.
If you are overcharged, or if required forms aren’t provided, you have legal options to resolve the issue.

Understanding these safeguards ensures a fair, transparent rental process for all Maine tenants.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Maine District Court – Handles tenancy and rent disputes
Pine Tree Legal Assistance – Free legal support for low-income Maine renters
Maine State Housing Authority – Official guidance on renting and tenant rights
Read the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act