How many days does a tenant get to pay late rent in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, a landlord must give a written demand and allow 14 days to pay before starting a nonpayment case. This is M.G.L. c. 186, §§ 11–12.

WhatMassachusetts
Days to pay after the demand14 days

Notes

One full rental period (30 days minimum). Entry: reasonable notice, 24 hours customary. Late rent: 14-day notice to quit.

Source

M.G.L. c. 186, §§ 11–12 — last checked 2026-09-15.

This is a summary of a published statute, not legal advice. Rules change, local ordinances can add to them, and the terms of a specific lease may differ. Check the citation and speak to a lawyer before acting.

How Seayora uses this rule

Seayora computes the deadline this rule sets from the tenancy’s own dates, shows it on the lease and the deposit statement, and reminds the landlord before it falls due — so the answer above is not reference material sitting beside the product, it is the rule the product enforces.

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