Iowa Rent Late Fee Calculator
Calculate rent late fees and verify compliance with Iowa state regulations. Free instant calculator with legal compliance verification.
Iowa's landlord-tenant laws allow landlords to impose late fees for overdue rent, but these fees are subject to strict caps. For rental agreements where the rent is less than $700 per month, the maximum permissible late fee is $12 per day, with a total cap of $60. If the rent exceeds $700, higher late fees may be negotiated, but they must be clearly stipulated in the lease agreement.(Iowa Code § 562A.9)
Related Statutes
In Iowa, late fees must be reasonable and are subject to specific statutory caps. The law explicitly limits late fees to $12 per day for rents under $700, with a total maximum of $60. For higher rent amounts, landlords and tenants can agree to different terms, but these must be specified in the lease.
Key Factors:
- Late fees must be explicitly stated in the lease.
- Maximum $12 per day for rents under $700.
- Total late fees cannot exceed $60 for rents under $700.
Des Moines
Des Moines adheres to state regulations without additional municipal overrides on late fees.
Learn moreCedar Rapids
Cedar Rapids follows the state law with no specific city-level regulations on late fees.
Learn moreAdjustment of Late Fee Caps
The legislature confirmed the existing caps on late fees, emphasizing the need for these to be included in lease agreements.
Minnesota
Late fees must be reasonable, typically around 5% of rent.
Illinois
Late fees cannot exceed $20 or 20% of the rent, whichever is greater.
Nebraska
No specific cap, but fees must be reasonable.
Landlord Best Practices:
- •Ensure all late fee terms are clearly outlined in the lease agreement.
- •Adhere strictly to the statutory limits on late fees.
- •Provide tenants with reminders before late fees are assessed.
Tenant Best Practices:
- •Review lease agreements carefully for late fee provisions.
- •Communicate promptly with your landlord if rent payment will be delayed.
- •Maintain records of all rent payments and any late fee transactions.
Frequently Asked Questions - Iowa
Maximum $12 per day for rent under $700 (max $60 total). Higher for rent over $700. Daily rates allowed. Must be in lease.
View Official State Law →Updated October 2025