Can my landlord charge a late fee the day rent is due in Hawaii?

Hawaii law imposes no mandatory grace period, so the lease controls when a late fee may be charged. The charge is only available where the rental agreement provides for it — no clause, no fee.

Hawaii rent late fee law

What your landlord is allowed to charge when rent is late, how soon they can charge it, and what to do about a fee the law doesn't allow.

Maximum late fee

8% of rent due

Grace period

None

The cap

Under HRS § 521-21(f), Where the rental agreement provides for a late charge, Hawaii caps it at 8% of the amount of rent due.

When the fee can start

Hawaii law sets no mandatory grace period — when a late fee kicks in is governed by the lease. The charge is only available where the rental agreement provides for it — no clause, no fee.

If you've been charged an illegal fee

A charge above 8%, or one with no lease basis, is unlawful to that extent and not collectible — demand a refund of the excess.

Charged a fee the law doesn't allow?

Answer a few questions and get a formal demand letter citing HRS § 521-21(f) and exactly which rule your landlord broke — free to generate and download. We can also send it by USPS Certified Mail for you, with the delivery record that holds up in court.

Dispute my late fee

Did your landlord also keep your security deposit?

Every state sets a deadline for returning your security deposit, with real penalties for landlords who miss it. See what Hawaii law requires and what your landlord may owe you.

Hawaii deposit law

Common questions

Is there a limit on late fees for rent in Hawaii?: Yes. Under HRS § 521-21(f), Where the rental agreement provides for a late charge, Hawaii caps it at 8% of the amount of rent due.
Can my landlord charge a late fee the day rent is due in Hawaii?: Hawaii law imposes no mandatory grace period, so the lease controls when a late fee may be charged. The charge is only available where the rental agreement provides for it — no clause, no fee.
What can I do if my landlord charged an illegal late fee in Hawaii?: A charge above 8%, or one with no lease basis, is unlawful to that extent and not collectible — demand a refund of the excess.

Statute text verified against the published source on August 6, 2026. Laws change — confirm the current text before relying on it. This page is general information, not legal advice.