Hello I'm new. I live in NJ, and my landlord failed to inform me where my security deposit was within the 30 day law requirements. The landlord resides on the second floor and in the attic is her sister and nephews. I reside on the first floor. Can I use my security deposit for my rent?

Not yet. First you have to send your landlord a letter by certified mail that you want your landlord to comply with the Security Deposit Law. If they haven't informed you where the security deposit is being held within 30 days after they receive that letter, then you can send them a certified letter telling them to apply your security deposit to your rent as it comes due.

(The Security Deposit Law does not apply to owner-occupied 2 or 3 family dwellings unless you send the landlord a letter telling them to apply it.)

You can read the NJ Truth in Renting Guide online at http://www.nj.gov/dca/codes/lt/pdf/t_i_r.pdf