Massachusetts: rules and deadlines at a glance

Every 9 topic we track for Massachusetts on one page. Open a topic for the details, the law it comes from and how Massachusetts compares.

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Claim deadlines · Small claims limits · Property division · Dog bite rules · Shared fault rules · Security deposit rules · Eviction notice rules · Property tax rates

General information only, not legal, insurance or financial advice. Not affiliated with any government agency. Exceptions can apply; open a topic for the details.

Filing deadlines (statute of limitations)

Property damage	3 years

Claim deadlines

Acknowledge	No fixed number of days; must act with reasonable promptness
Accept or deny	Reasonable time
Pay	Not set by rule

Small claims limits Single detailed source

Dollar limit	$7,000 (no cap for car property damage)
Filing fee	$40 to $150
Lawyers	Allowed

Property division

System	Equitable distribution
Opt-in community property	No

Dog bite rules Single detailed source

Rule	Strict liability
Details	Strict liability

Shared fault rules

Rule	Modified comparative negligence (51% bar)
When you are barred	Barred if you are 51% or more at fault

Security deposit rules Single detailed source

Maximum deposit	1 month's rent
Return deadline	30 days

Eviction notice rules Single detailed source

Notice before filing	14 days' notice to quit

Property tax rates

Effective rate	1.00%
On a $300,000 home	$3,000 a year