What is the maximum late fee in Washington DC?

The maximum late fee in Washington DC is $75.00 based on a rent of $1,500.00. 5-day grace period. Max 5% of monthly rent.

Does Washington DC require a grace period for late fees?

Yes, Washington DC requires a 5-day grace period by law. No late fee can be charged during this period.

Free Tool

Calculate the maximum late fee you can legally charge in Washington DC. Check grace periods, fee caps, and compliance with Washington DC state law.

State

Monthly Rent

Days Late

Your Proposed Fee

Your Late Fee

$75.00

Compliant

Your proposed fee of $75.00 is within the $75.00 maximum for Washington DC.

Rent + Fee

$1,575.00

Grace Period

5 days (required)

Maximum Fee in Washington DC

$75.00

Grace period: 5 days (required)

Fee cap: $75.00 (5%)

Daily fees: Not typical

5-day grace period. Max 5% of monthly rent.

Next Step

Turn this calculation into a printable, Washington DC-compliant notice you can send to your tenant today — with the statute reference included.

Your Name (Landlord)

Tenant Name

Property Address

Rent Due Date

Fill in the four fields above to generate your notice.

This free tool is brought to you by Tenby — AI-powered property management for independent landlords. No sign-up required.

Washington DC requires a 5-day grace period before any late fee can be charged. The maximum late fee is capped at 5% of rent.

Use the calculator above to check if your proposed late fee complies with Washington DC law. Need more tools? Check the Washington DC security deposit calculator, or try our prorated rent calculator and rent estimate tool.

For a complete guide to Washington DC landlord-tenant law, read our Washington DC Landlord-Tenant Law 2026 guide.