How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit?
Short answer: It depends on the state — deadlines vary widely, many fall between 14 and 30 days after move-out, and a few states set no fixed number of days — and most states require an itemized list of any deductions. Many states penalize landlords who miss the deadline or withhold in bad faith.
How to get your deposit back
- Leave a forwarding address in writing — in many states the deadline or penalty depends on it.
- Photograph the unit when you move out.
- If the deadline passes, send a written demand citing your state's statute from the table below.
- If the landlord still doesn't pay, small claims court handles deposit disputes without a lawyer.
The rule in every state
Each answer below links to the statute or official page it comes from (51 of 51 jurisdictions verified).
| State | Deposit return deadline | Itemized deductions | Penalty for withholding |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Within 60 days after the tenancy ends and the tenant gives up possession. The landlord mails the refund and/or itemized accounting by first-class mail to the forwarding address the tenant gave in writing, or to the last known address or the rental address if none was given. Ala. Code § 35-9A-201(b)-(e) | If the landlord does not refund the whole deposit, the landlord must give the tenant an itemized list of the amounts withheld within the 60-day period. Deductions are limited to accrued rent and damages from the tenant's failure to meet the duties in § 35-9A-301. Ala. Code § 35-9A-201(b)-(c) | If the landlord does not mail a timely refund or accounting within 60 days, the landlord must pay the tenant double the amount of the tenant's original deposit. Ala. Code § 35-9A-201(f) |
| Alaska | 14 days after the tenancy ends and possession is delivered, if the tenant gave proper notice. 30 days if deductions are made for damage beyond normal wear and tear, or if the tenant did not give proper notice. In that case the 30 days run from the later of move-out or when the landlord learns the unit was abandoned. AS 34.03.070(b), (g) | The landlord must give a written, itemized list of deductions (accrued rent and damage beyond normal wear and tear) with any refund. 'Nonrefundable' cleaning fees and automatic forfeitures are treated as unlawful. AS 34.03.070(b), (i)(1); AS 34.03.120(c) | If the landlord willfully fails to comply, the tenant may recover up to twice the amount wrongfully withheld. AS 34.03.070(d) |
| Arizona | Within 14 days, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays, after the tenancy ends, possession is delivered, and the tenant demands the deposit. A.R.S. § 33-1321(D) | The landlord must provide an itemized list of all deductions together with any amount due to the tenant. Deductions may cover rent, charges specified in the signed lease (subject to the duty to mitigate), and damages from the tenant's noncompliance with § 33-1341. If the tenant does not dispute the deductions within 60 days after mailing, the list becomes final and further claims are waived. A.R.S. § 33-1321(D) | If the landlord does not comply, the tenant may recover the property and money due plus damages equal to twice the amount wrongfully withheld. A.R.S. § 33-1321(E) |
| Arkansas | Within 60 days after the tenant moves out. Ark. Code Ann. § 18-16-305 | The landlord may deduct unpaid rent and the cost of repairing damage. Any deductions require a written, itemized list delivered to the tenant within 60 days of vacating. Ark. Code Ann. § 18-16-305 | If the landlord fails to comply with the deposit subchapter, the tenant may recover the property and money due plus damages equal to twice the amount wrongfully withheld, plus court costs and reasonable attorney's fees. If the landlord proves by a preponderance of the evidence that the failure came from an error despite reasonable procedures to avoid it, or from a good-faith dispute over the amount due, the landlord owes only costs and the amount wrongly withheld. Ark. Code Ann. § 18-16-306 |
| California | No later than 21 calendar days after the tenant vacates. The landlord must return the remaining deposit with an itemized statement. Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5(h)(1) | The landlord must give an itemized statement of deductions. For deductions over $125, it must include copies of receipts or invoices, or the landlord's own time and hourly rate. If work cannot be finished within 21 days, a good-faith estimate is allowed, with documents due within 14 days of completion. Deductions for repairs or cleaning must include photographs. The tenant may also request a pre-move-out initial inspection, at which the landlord lists proposed deductions so the tenant can fix them. Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5(f), (g), (h)(2)-(5) | Bad-faith retention can bring statutory damages of up to twice the amount of the deposit, plus actual damages. A landlord who in bad faith fails to comply with the itemization and documentation rules may claim no part of the deposit. Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5(h)(7), (m) |
| Colorado | Within 30 days after the lease ends or the premises are surrendered, whichever is later. The lease may set a longer period, up to 60 days. C.R.S. § 38-12-103(1) (as amended by HB 25-1249) | A written statement listing the exact reasons for any amount kept, sent with the balance. Deductions are allowed only for nonpayment of rent, utility charges, other lawful charges listed in the lease, and necessary repairs for damage beyond normal wear and tear that did not exist before the tenancy. If the tenant asks in writing within 14 days after receiving the statement, the landlord must provide relevant documentation (photos, inspection reports, receipts, invoices, estimates). Either party may request a walk-through inspection before move-out. C.R.S. § 38-12-103(1), (1.5), (8) (as amended by HB 25-1249) | Treble (three times) the amount wrongfully withheld, plus reasonable attorney fees and court costs. The tenant must first send a demand and notice of intent to sue at least 7 days before filing, and may sue only if the landlord does not return the money within those 7 days. Keeping 125% or more of actual damages is presumed bad faith, and the landlord bears the burden of proof. C.R.S. § 38-12-103(2.5), (3), (3.5) (as amended by HB 25-1249) |
| Connecticut | 21 days after the tenancy ends, or 15 days after the landlord receives the tenant's written forwarding address, whichever is later. Conn. Gen. Stat. § 47a-21(d)(2) | Landlord must return the full deposit plus interest, or the balance after deductions together with a written statement itemizing the nature and amount of each damage, within the § 47a-21(d)(2) deadline. Conn. Gen. Stat. § 47a-21(d)(2) | Landlord who misses the deadline or itemization requirement is liable for twice the amount of the security deposit. If the only violation is unpaid interest, liability is the greater of $10 or twice the accrued interest. Knowing and wilful failure is also a fine of up to $250 per offense. Conn. Gen. Stat. § 47a-21(d)(2), (k)(1) |
| Delaware | 20 days after the lease expires or terminates. 25 Del. C. § 5514(e)-(f) | Within 20 days, an itemized list of damages with the estimated repair cost for each, plus payment of the balance. Failure to send the list is an acknowledgment that nothing is owed for damages. Tenant who accepts the payment agrees to the deductions unless the tenant objects in writing within 10 days of receiving it. 25 Del. C. § 5514(f) | Double the amount wrongfully withheld if not returned within 20 days. Failure to disclose the escrow account location within 20 days of written request, or using a non-compliant bank, forfeits the deposit to the tenant (double if not then returned within 20 days). 25 Del. C. § 5514(g) |
| District of Columbia | Within 45 days after the tenant vacates, the landlord must either return the deposit (with interest for tenancies of 12+ months) or give written notice of amounts claimed. If amounts are claimed, the balance must be returned within 30 days after that notice. 14 DCMR § 309; D.C. Code § 42-3502.17(e) | Within 45 days, written notice of any claimed unpaid rent, damage beyond ordinary wear and tear, or cost of removing abandoned items, with supporting documentation and a statement of the tenant's right to dispute. Tenant has 30 days to dispute; landlord must respond within 10 days. Ordinary wear and tear may not be charged. D.C. Code § 42-3502.17(c), (e) | A housing provider who fails to return a security deposit rightfully owed is liable to the tenant for the amount withheld, or treble damages if it acted in bad faith. Failing to pay interest owed on the deposit makes the provider liable to the tenant for the interest, or treble that amount in bad faith; a willful failure to pay interest carries a civil fine of up to $5,000 per violation. 'Bad faith' means a frivolous or unfounded refusal motivated by a fraudulent, deceptive, dishonest, or unreasonably self-serving purpose, not simple negligence or an honest belief. 14 DCMR §§ 309 (new sub-paragraph (d)), 311.1-311.2, as amended by D.C. Law 16-276 and D.C. Law 19-140 (Tenant Security Deposits Clarification Amendment Act of 2012) |
| Florida | 15 days after the lease ends if the landlord makes no claim. If the landlord intends to keep any part, written notice of the claim must be sent within 30 days (certified mail to last known address, or e-mail under § 83.505); tenant then has 15 days to object, and the balance is due within 30 days of the notice. Fla. Stat. § 83.49(3)(a)-(b) | Written notice of intention to impose a claim, stating the amount and reason, sent within 30 days of termination in the statutory form; tenant has 15 days after receipt to object in writing. Fla. Stat. § 83.49(3)(a)-(b) | If the landlord fails to send the 30-day notice, the landlord forfeits the right to impose a claim on the deposit (may still sue separately for damages after returning it). No statutory double/treble penalty. Fla. Stat. § 83.49(3)(a) |
| Georgia | Within 30 days after the landlord obtains possession of the unit. The landlord complies by mailing the statement and any refund by first-class mail to the tenant's last known address. If the mailed refund is returned undeliverable and the tenant cannot be located after reasonable effort, it becomes the landlord's property 90 days after mailing. O.C.G.A. § 44-7-34(a) | If any amount is kept, the landlord must give a written statement of the specific reasons within 30 days, with the itemized damage list if damage is claimed, and the balance due. No deduction for normal wear and tear. Landlords with more than 10 units or a fee-paid management agent must also give a move-in damage list and do a move-out inspection within 3 business days, giving the tenant a signed damage list; the tenant may inspect within 5 business days and sign or note disagreements. O.C.G.A. §§ 44-7-33, 44-7-34 | Landlord who fails to return any part of a deposit required to be returned is liable for 3 times the amount improperly withheld plus reasonable attorney's fees, unless the landlord shows by a preponderance of the evidence that the withholding was unintentional and a bona fide error despite procedures reasonably adapted to avoid it (then only the amount withheld). Failing to keep the escrow/bond or provide the required damage lists forfeits the right to withhold any part of the deposit. These penalties do not apply to owners of 10 or fewer units without a fee-paid manager, who can still be sued for the amount, interest while withheld, attorney's fees, and filing costs. O.C.G.A. §§ 44-7-35, 44-7-36; Georgia Landlord-Tenant Handbook (DCA, rev. 8-29-24), pp. 15-16 |
| Hawaii | 14 days after the rental agreement ends. HRS § 521-44(c) | Written notice of the particulars and grounds for any retention, with written evidence of costs (estimates, invoices, receipts), within 14 days. If the landlord fails to do so, it may not keep any of the deposit and must return all of it. HRS § 521-44(c) | Wrongful and wilful retention: court may award up to 3 times the amount wrongfully and wilfully retained, plus costs. Wrongful (not wilful) retention: the amount wrongfully retained plus costs. HRS § 521-44(h) |
| Idaho | 21 days after the tenant surrenders the premises if the lease sets no time; the lease may set a different period but never more than 30 days. Idaho Code § 6-321 | If only part of the deposit is refunded, the landlord must include a signed statement itemizing the amounts kept, the reasons, and the expenditures. Deductions may not be taken for normal wear and tear. Idaho Code § 6-321 | Tenant may sue for failure to return a deposit as required by law (after a 3-day written notice to the landlord); the court may enter judgment for up to three times actual damages, plus costs and attorney fees. Idaho Code §§ 6-320(a), 6-317, 6-324 |
| Illinois | If the landlord withholds anything for damage, an itemized statement with estimated or actual repair costs and paid receipts is due within 30 days after the tenant vacates (or possession ends, whichever is later); if no statement is given, the full deposit must be returned within 45 days after the tenant vacates. 765 ILCS 710/1 | Itemized statement of damage with estimated or actual repair/replacement cost for each item, with paid receipts (or copies) attached, delivered within 30 days by personal delivery, postmarked mail, or email to a verified address; if estimates are used, paid receipts must follow within 30 days. If receipts are unavailable through no fault of the landlord, a verified statement explaining why is allowed. 765 ILCS 710/1(a)-(b) | If a court finds the landlord refused to supply the itemized statement or supplied it in bad faith and failed to return the deposit on time: twice the amount of the deposit due, plus court costs and reasonable attorney's fees. 765 ILCS 710/1(c) |
| Indiana | Within 45 days after termination of the rental agreement and delivery of possession, the landlord must return the deposit minus itemized deductions. The landlord is not liable until the tenant provides a written forwarding mailing address. IC 32-31-3-12, 32-31-3-14 | Within 45 days after termination of occupancy, landlord must mail an itemized list of damages with the estimated cost of repair for each item, plus a check or money order for the balance. Deposits may be used only for actual damage beyond ordinary wear and tear, unpaid rent (including rent due for early termination), the last rent period if agreed in writing, and unpaid utility/sewer charges owed by the tenant. IC 32-31-3-13, 32-31-3-14 | Tenant may recover the full deposit due (or the part wrongfully withheld) plus reasonable attorney's fees and court costs. No multiple-damages penalty. IC 32-31-3-12(b), 32-31-3-16 |
| Iowa | Within 30 days after termination of the tenancy and receipt of the tenant's mailing address or delivery instructions, return the deposit or give a written statement of the specific reasons for withholding. If no address is provided within one year, the deposit reverts to the landlord. Iowa Code § 562A.12(3)-(4) | Written statement showing the specific reason for withholding any portion; if withheld for restoration, it must specify the nature of the damages. Allowed deductions: unpaid rent or other funds due under the lease, restoring the unit to move-in condition (ordinary wear and tear excepted), and costs of recovering possession from a tenant who fails in bad faith to vacate. Landlord bears the burden of proof. Iowa Code § 562A.12(3) | Bad-faith retention: actual damages plus punitive damages of up to twice the monthly rent; court may award reasonable attorney fees to the prevailing party. Iowa Code § 562A.12(7)-(8) |
| Kansas | Balance due within 14 days after the landlord determines deductions, and in no event more than 30 days after termination of tenancy, delivery of possession and the tenant's demand. If the tenant makes no demand within 30 days, the landlord must mail the amount due to the tenant's last known address. K.S.A. 58-2550(b) | Deductions for accrued rent and damages from the tenant's noncompliance must be itemized by the landlord in a written notice delivered to the tenant. K.S.A. 58-2550(b) | The deposit due plus damages equal to 1.5 times the amount wrongfully withheld. K.S.A. 58-2550(c) |
| Kentucky | Non-URLTA areas: no statute. URLTA areas: no fixed refund deadline; if the tenant leaves owing no rent with a refund due, the landlord must send notice of the refund amount to the tenant's last known address and may keep the deposit if the tenant does not respond within 60 days. If the tenant leaves without paying the last month's rent and does not demand the deposit, the landlord may apply it after 30 days. KRS 383.580(6)-(7) | URLTA areas: before taking a deposit, the landlord must give a signed move-in list of existing damage with estimated repair costs; at move-out the landlord must inspect and compile a signed list of damages with estimated costs, which the tenant may inspect and dispute in writing. Deposits must be kept in a separate account at a regulated institution and the tenant told the bank and account number. Non-URLTA areas: no statute. KRS 383.580(1)-(3), (5) | URLTA areas: a landlord who did not keep the deposit in a separate account and provide both move-in and move-out damage lists may not retain any portion of the deposit. No multiple-damages penalty. Non-URLTA areas: no statute. KRS 383.580(4) |
| Louisiana | Within one month after the lease terminates. If the landlord keeps any part, the itemized statement is due within one month after the tenancy ends. As of Aug. 1, 2026, the landlord may instead send it within an additional 15 days after that one-month date. La. R.S. 9:3251(A), as amended by Acts 2026, No. 63 (HB 292), eff. Aug. 1, 2026 | If any part of the deposit is kept for the tenant's default or unreasonable wear, the landlord must send an itemized statement of the amounts kept and the reasons. It is due within one month after the tenancy ends, or within an additional 15 days after that date (2026 amendment). La. R.S. 9:3251(A) | For willful noncompliance, the tenant recovers the wrongfully kept amount plus $300 or twice the wrongfully kept amount, whichever is greater. Failing to refund within 30 days after the tenant's written demand counts as willful. The court may award costs and attorney's fees to the prevailing party. La. R.S. 9:3252 (as amended by Acts 2018, No. 416, eff. Jan. 1, 2019); La. R.S. 9:3253; La. R.S. 9:3254 (waiver void) |
| Maine | Written rental agreement: within the time stated in the agreement, which may not exceed 30 days. Tenancy at will: 21 days after termination or surrender and acceptance of the premises, whichever is later. 14 M.R.S. § 6033(2) | If any part is withheld, the landlord must give a written statement itemizing the reasons for retention and return the balance within the § 6033 deadline. Normal wear and tear may not be deducted. Mailing to the tenant's last known address satisfies the requirement. 14 M.R.S. § 6033(1)-(2) | Twice the amount wrongfully withheld, plus reasonable attorney's fees and court costs. Tenant must give the landlord at least 7 days' notice of intent to sue; if the deposit is not returned within those 7 days, wrongful retention is presumed. Landlord bears the burden of proving the withholding was not wrongful. 14 M.R.S. § 6034 |
| Maryland | Within 45 days after the tenancy ends, the landlord must return the deposit plus accrued interest, less damages rightfully withheld. Md. Code, Real Prop. § 8-203(e)(1) | Within 45 days after the tenancy ends, the landlord must send a written list of damages claimed plus an itemized statement of the cost of each (with supporting documentation; cost estimates allowed) by first-class mail to the tenant's last known address. If the landlord does not, it forfeits the right to withhold any of the deposit for damages. Where estimates were used, the landlord must notify the tenant when repairs are done and refund any excess within 30 days. Md. Code, Real Prop. § 8-203(g), (j), (k) | If the landlord fails to return the deposit and interest within 45 days without a reasonable basis, the tenant may sue for up to 3 times the withheld amount plus reasonable attorney's fees. Md. Code, Real Prop. § 8-203(e)(4) |
| Massachusetts | 30 days after the tenancy ends (end of a tenancy at will or end of the lease term). The landlord must return the deposit, or whatever balance remains, with any accrued interest. G.L. c. 186, § 15B(4) | To keep any part of the deposit for damage, the landlord must give the tenant, within 30 days after the tenancy ends, an itemized list of the damage. The list must be signed under the pains and penalties of perjury, describe the damage and repairs in precise detail, and include written evidence such as estimates, bills, invoices, or receipts. G.L. c. 186, § 15B(4)(iii) | Three times the deposit (or the balance owed), plus 5% interest from the date payment was due, court costs, and reasonable attorney's fees. This applies to the failures listed in § 15B(6)(a), (d) and (e), including failing to return the deposit (or balance) within 30 days. The landlord also forfeits the right to keep any part of the deposit if it, for example, misses the 30-day itemized-list deadline or does not hold the deposit in a separate Massachusetts interest-bearing account. G.L. c. 186, § 15B(6)-(7) |
| Michigan | 30 days after the tenant's occupancy ends: landlord must mail an itemized notice of damages with the balance, or return the full deposit. If the landlord wants to keep any disputed amount it must sue within 45 days after termination of occupancy. MCL 554.609; MCL 554.610; MCL 554.613 | Itemized notice of damages, mailed within 30 days after occupancy ends, listing each claimed damage, the estimated cost of repair for each item, and the amounts and bases for the charges, plus payment of any balance. Must include a bold notice (12-point boldface, at least 4 points larger than body text) that the tenant must respond by mail within 7 days or forfeit the amount claimed. MCL 554.609; MCL 554.612; MCL 554.608 | Double the amount of the deposit retained, and the landlord waives all claimed damages, if the landlord fails to comply fully with MCL 554.613 MCL 554.613(2); MCL 554.610 |
| Minnesota | Within three weeks after the tenancy ends (and after the landlord receives the tenant's mailing address or delivery instructions), return the deposit with interest or give a written statement of reasons for withholding. Within 5 days if the tenant must leave because the building is legally condemned (unless the tenant's own willful, malicious, or irresponsible conduct caused it). Minn. Stat. § 504B.178, subd. 3 | If any amount is withheld, the landlord must give a written statement showing the specific reason for the withholding. Deductions are limited to amounts reasonably necessary to cover rent or other payment defaults by the tenant, or to restore the unit to its move-in condition, ordinary wear and tear excepted. Minn. Stat. § 504B.178, subd. 3 | If the landlord fails to provide the written statement on time (or fails to do the required inspections when requested), the landlord owes the amount withheld plus interest as a penalty, in addition to returning the wrongfully withheld amount with interest (effectively double). Bad-faith retention adds punitive damages of up to $500 per deposit. Minn. Stat. § 504B.178, subds. 4 and 7 |
| Mississippi | Within 45 days after the tenancy ends, the tenant delivers possession, and the tenant demands return. Miss. Code Ann. § 89-8-21(3) | Required. To keep any part of the deposit, the landlord must send the tenant a written notice itemizing each amount claimed. The landlord may keep only what is reasonably necessary for unpaid rent, damage the tenant caused beyond ordinary wear and tear, cleaning at the end of the tenancy, or other reasonable and necessary expenses caused by the tenant's default. Miss. Code Ann. § 89-8-21(3) | If a landlord keeps a deposit in violation of the statute and without good faith, the landlord can owe damages of up to $200 on top of any actual damages. Miss. Code Ann. § 89-8-21(4) |
| Missouri | Within 30 days after the tenancy ends, the landlord must return the full deposit or send an itemized list of damages along with any remaining balance. Mailing to the tenant's last known address satisfies the duty. RSMo 535.300.3 | Required. Withholding must be listed in a written itemized list of damages. Allowed deductions: unpaid rent; restoring the unit beyond ordinary wear and tear; carpet cleaning if the lease contains the required notice and a receipt is provided within 30 days; actual losses from the tenant's inadequate termination notice if the landlord tried to mitigate. RSMo 535.300.3-.4 | Tenant may recover twice the amount wrongfully withheld. RSMo 535.300.6 |
| Montana | 30 days after the tenancy ends (or after surrender and acceptance of the premises, whichever is first) when the landlord makes deductions; 10 days when there are no damages, no cleaning needed, no unpaid rent, and the tenant shows utilities are paid. Mont. Code Ann. § 70-25-202(1)(a)-(b) | Landlord must give the departing tenant a written list of rent due and damage/cleaning charges, with any refund, within 30 days. Failure to provide the list forfeits all rights to withhold any part of the deposit for damage or cleaning. Cleaning deductions require prior written notice listing the cleaning needed; the tenant then has 24 hours to do it. Mont. Code Ann. §§ 70-25-201(3), 70-25-202, 70-25-203 | Landlord who wrongfully withholds is liable for the amount wrongfully withheld or deducted; court may award attorney fees to the prevailing party. No multiplier. Mont. Code Ann. § 70-25-204 |
| Nebraska | 14 days after the tenancy terminates (balance plus written itemization delivered or mailed; if no forwarding address is given, mail first-class to the last-known address). Neb. Rev. Stat. § 76-1416 | Required: a written itemization of the amounts withheld must accompany the returned balance within 14 days. Neb. Rev. Stat. § 76-1416 | Tenant recovers the money due plus court costs and reasonable attorney's fees; if the landlord's failure was willful and not in good faith, also liquidated damages equal to the lesser of one month's periodic rent or two times the deposit. Neb. Rev. Stat. § 76-1416 |
| Nevada | 30 days after termination of the tenancy. NRS 118A.242(4) | Landlord must give an itemized, written accounting of the disposition of the deposit (and/or surety bond) with any remaining balance within 30 days. Deductions limited to unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear, and reasonable cleaning costs. NRS 118A.242(4) | If the landlord fails or refuses to return the remainder within 30 days, the landlord is liable for (a) an amount equal to the entire deposit, plus (b) a court-fixed sum of up to the entire deposit. NRS 118A.242(6)-(7) |
| New Hampshire | Within 30 days after the tenancy ends. RSA 540-A:7, I | Yes. Written, itemized list of damages beyond reasonable wear and tear, describing each repair with satisfactory evidence it was or will be done (receipts, estimates, invoices); unpaid rent or other charges must be itemized with the period covered. RSA 540-A:7 | Landlord who fails to return the deposit/interest or itemize as required is liable for twice the amount of the deposit plus any interest due, less amounts already paid and lawful deductions. RSA 540-A:8, I |
| New Jersey | Within 30 days after the lease ends, by personal delivery or registered or certified mail: the deposit plus the tenant's share of interest, minus lawful charges. Within 5 business days if the tenant is displaced by fire, flood, condemnation, or evacuation (and the premises are posted or certified as described in the statute). Within 15 business days when a domestic-violence victim ends the lease under N.J.S.A. 46:8-9.6. N.J.S.A. 46:8-21.1 | Interest and any deductions must be itemized and sent to the tenant by personal delivery or registered or certified mail within the same 30-day period. No deductions may be made from the deposit of a tenant who is still in possession. N.J.S.A. 46:8-21.1 | If the tenant wins a suit for the return of the deposit, the court must award double the amount due, plus full court costs. Reasonable attorney's fees are at the court's discretion. N.J.S.A. 46:8-21.1 |
| New Mexico | Within 30 days of the end of the rental agreement or the resident's departure, whichever is later NMSA 1978, § 47-8-18(C) | If any amount is kept, the owner must give an itemized written list of deductions and the balance within 30 days. No deductions for normal wear and tear; allowed for unpaid rent/utilities, repair work and other legitimate damages from the resident's noncompliance. NMSA 1978, § 47-8-18(C) | Missing the 30-day statement: owner forfeits the right to withhold any part of the deposit, to counterclaim in a suit to recover it, and to sue separately for property damage, and owes the resident's court costs and reasonable attorney's fees. Bad-faith retention: additional $250 civil penalty payable to the resident. NMSA 1978, § 47-8-18(D)-(E) |
| New York | 14 days after the tenant vacates N.Y. Gen. Oblig. Law § 7-108(1-a)(e) | Itemized statement showing the basis for any amount retained, within 14 days of move-out. Deductions limited to reasonable, itemized costs for unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear, unpaid utilities, and moving/storage of tenant belongings. Tenant may request a pre-move-out inspection, after which the landlord must give an itemized list of proposed repairs/cleaning. N.Y. Gen. Oblig. Law § 7-108(1-a)(b), (d), (e) | Missing the 14-day deadline forfeits the landlord's right to keep any part of the deposit. Violators owe actual damages; a willful violation adds punitive damages of up to twice the deposit. N.Y. Gen. Oblig. Law § 7-108(1-a)(e), (g) |
| North Carolina | 30 days after the tenancy ends and possession is delivered. If the landlord's claim can't be determined in 30 days, an interim accounting is due in 30 days and a final accounting within 60 days. N.C. Gen. Stat. § 42-52 | Landlord must itemize any damage in writing and mail or deliver it with the balance of the deposit. Deductions allowed only for: unpaid rent and certain utility charges, damage (including to smoke/CO alarms), damages from breaking the rental period, unpaid bills that become a lien, re-renting costs after breach, removal/storage after summary ejectment, court costs, and fees permitted by § 42-46. No deductions for normal wear and tear or above actual damages. N.C. Gen. Stat. §§ 42-51(a), 42-52 | Willful failure to comply with the deposit, bond, or notice requirements voids the landlord's right to keep any part of the deposit. Tenant may sue for an accounting and the balance plus damages; court may award attorney's fees for willful noncompliance. N.C. Gen. Stat. § 42-55 |
| North Dakota | Within 30 days after the lease ends and the tenant delivers possession N.D.C.C. § 47-16-07.1(3) | Any portion not returned must be itemized; the itemization, the amount due, and a written notice stating any amount still owed or refund due must be delivered or mailed within 30 days. Allowed deductions: damage from the tenant's pet or negligence of the tenant/guests, unpaid rent, and cleaning/repairs needed to restore the unit to move-in condition, reasonable wear and tear excepted. N.D.C.C. § 47-16-07.1(3) | Treble (3x) damages for any security deposit money withheld without reasonable justification N.D.C.C. § 47-16-07.1(4) |
| Ohio | Within 30 days after the rental agreement ends and possession is delivered, the landlord must send the itemized written notice of deductions together with the amount due. Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.16(B) | Deductions (unpaid rent and damages from the tenant's noncompliance with § 5321.05 or the rental agreement) must be itemized and identified in a written notice delivered within 30 days. Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.16(B) | Tenant may recover the money wrongfully withheld plus damages equal to the amount wrongfully withheld (effectively double) and reasonable attorney's fees. Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.16(C) |
| Oklahoma | 45 days after the tenancy ends, possession is delivered AND the tenant makes a written demand for the deposit. 41 O.S. § 115(B) | Deductions (accrued rent and damages from tenant noncompliance) must be itemized in a written notice delivered to the tenant by mail with return receipt requested or in person if the tenant can reasonably be found. 41 O.S. § 115(B) | If the landlord fails to comply, the tenant may recover the damage/security deposit and any prepaid rent. No statutory double or treble damages. 41 O.S. § 115(E), (G) |
| Oregon | 31 days after the tenancy terminates and the tenant delivers possession. ORS 90.300(12)-(13) | Within the same 31 days, the landlord must give a written accounting stating specifically the basis of each claim. Deductions are limited to amounts reasonably necessary to remedy tenant defaults (including unpaid rent) or repair damage beyond ordinary wear and tear. ORS 90.300(7), (12) | Twice the amount withheld without a written accounting, or twice the amount withheld in bad faith. ORS 90.300(16) |
| Pennsylvania | 30 days after the lease ends or the tenant surrenders the premises (whichever comes first). Act § 512(a) (68 P.S. § 250.512(a)) | Written list of damages for which the tenant is claimed liable, delivered within 30 days together with payment of the balance. If no list within 30 days, the landlord forfeits the right to withhold any part of the deposit or to sue for damages to the premises. Act § 512(a)-(b) (68 P.S. § 250.512) | Double the amount by which the deposit (plus unpaid interest) exceeds the actual damages caused by the tenant, if not paid within 30 days. Landlord bears the burden of proving damages. Act § 512(c) (68 P.S. § 250.512(c)) |
| Rhode Island | 20 days after the latest of: termination of tenancy, delivery of possession, or the tenant providing a forwarding address. R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18-19(b) | Written itemized notice of deductions sent with the refund. Allowed deductions: unpaid accrued rent, reasonable cleaning, reasonable trash disposal, and damage beyond normal wear and tear caused by the tenant. R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18-19(b) | Amount due plus damages equal to twice the amount wrongfully withheld, plus reasonable attorney's fees. R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18-19(c) |
| South Carolina | 30 days after termination of the tenancy and delivery of possession and demand by the tenant. S.C. Code § 27-40-410(a) | Written notice itemizing the amounts withheld (accrued rent and damages from tenant noncompliance), delivered with any balance due within the 30 days. S.C. Code § 27-40-410(a) | Three times the amount wrongfully withheld, plus reasonable attorney's fees. S.C. Code § 27-40-410(b) |
| South Dakota | 21 days after the tenancy ends and the landlord receives the tenant's mailing address or delivery instructions: return the deposit or give a written statement of the specific reasons for withholding. SDCL 43-32-24 | Written statement of the specific reason for any withholding within 21 days; if the tenant requests it, an itemized accounting of any amount withheld within 45 days after the tenancy ends. Deductions are limited to unpaid rent, other money owed under an agreement, and restoring the premises to move-in condition (ordinary wear and tear excepted). SDCL 43-32-24 | A landlord who does not comply loses all right to withhold any part of the deposit. Bad-faith retention, or bad-faith failure to provide the written statement or itemized accounting, adds punitive damages of up to $200. SDCL 43-32-24 |
| Tennessee | No fixed number of days for returning the deposit. In URLTA counties, if the tenant leaves owing no rent and is due a refund, the landlord must send notice of the refund amount to the tenant's last known or reasonably determinable address. If the tenant does not respond within 60 days of that notice, the landlord may keep the deposit. Move-out inspection: on the move-out day or within 4 calendar days after it. T.C.A. 66-28-301(b)(1)(A), (f) | Deductions must be supported by a written listing of damages with estimated repair costs. The tenant has the right to inspect: after a request to vacate, or within 5 days of the tenant's notice to vacate, the landlord may notify the tenant of the right to attend the inspection. At a mutual inspection, both parties sign the listing, and their signatures are conclusive evidence that it is accurate. A tenant who refuses to sign must list in writing the items they dispute. The landlord may inspect alone if the tenant left without written notice, abandoned the unit, was judicially removed, did not respond, did not show up, or did not request an inspection. In that case, on the tenant's written request, the landlord must send a copy of the listing by certificate of mailing. The deposit may also be applied to unpaid rent. T.C.A. 66-28-301(b), (e) | A landlord who did not keep the deposit in the required separate account AND did not provide the required damage listing may not keep any part of the deposit. A tenant may sue in circuit or general sessions court over the final damage listing, but only for items the tenant specifically disputed in writing. T.C.A. 66-28-301(c), (d) |
| Texas | On or before the 30th day after the tenant surrenders the premises. Tex. Prop. Code Sec. 92.103(a) | Required: written description and itemized list of all deductions, with the balance of the deposit. No deductions for normal wear and tear. Not required if the tenant owes rent at surrender and there is no dispute about the amount owed. Tex. Prop. Code Sec. 92.104 | Bad-faith retention: $100 + three times the portion wrongfully withheld + reasonable attorney's fees. Bad-faith failure to itemize: landlord forfeits the right to withhold any portion and to sue for damages, and owes attorney's fees. Failure to refund or itemize within 30 days is presumed bad faith. Tex. Prop. Code Sec. 92.109 |
| Utah | No later than 30 days after the renter vacates and returns possession. If the owner misses it, the renter may serve a statutory 'Tenant's Notice to Provide Deposit Disposition', after which the owner has five business days to comply. Utah Code 57-17-3(2)-(5) | Required: written notice itemizing and explaining the reason for each deduction, with the balance of the deposit and any prepaid rent. Deductions allowed for rent, damage beyond reasonable wear and tear, other contractual costs and fees, and cleaning. Utah Code 57-17-3(1)-(2) | If the owner fails to comply within five business days after the renter's statutory notice, the renter may recover the full deposit, the full prepaid rent, and a $100 civil penalty; court awards costs and attorney fees to the prevailing party if the other side acted in bad faith. Utah Code 57-17-5 |
| Vermont | Within 14 days from the date the landlord learns the tenant vacated (or from the move-out date if the tenant gave notice of it); 60 days for seasonal rentals not intended as a primary residence. 9 V.S.A. 4461(c) | Required: written itemized statement of the reasons for any amount withheld, sent with any balance within 14 days. 9 V.S.A. 4461(c) | A landlord who fails to return the deposit and statement within 14 days forfeits the right to withhold any portion; if the failure is willful, the landlord is liable for double the amount wrongfully withheld plus reasonable attorney's fees and costs. 9 V.S.A. 4461(e) |
| Virginia | 45 days after termination of the tenancy or the date the tenant vacates, whichever is later. Va. Code 55.1-1226(A) | Required: written notice itemizing the deposit and any deductions, damages and charges, delivered with any refund within the 45-day period. Va. Code 55.1-1226(A) | If the landlord willfully fails to comply, the court shall order return of the deposit plus actual damages and reasonable attorney fees (if the tenant owes rent, the deposit amount is credited against rent due). Va. Code 55.1-1226(E) |
| Washington | 30 days after the rental agreement terminates and the tenant vacates (or 30 days after the landlord learns of abandonment). RCW 59.18.280(1) | Required: a full and specific statement of the basis for retaining any of the deposit, with supporting documentation (estimates, invoices, receipts; time and hourly rate for landlord's own labor). No deductions for ordinary wear, for carpet cleaning unless wear exceeds ordinary use, or for conditions not documented on the move-in checklist. RCW 59.18.280(1) | Landlord who fails to provide the statement/documentation within 30 days owes the full deposit and loses the right to assert claims against it; court may award up to two times the deposit for intentional refusal; prevailing party gets costs and reasonable attorneys' fees. RCW 59.18.280(2)-(3); RCW 59.18.260 |
| West Virginia | Within the 'notice period': 60 days after the tenancy ends, or 45 days after a new tenant occupies the unit, whichever is shorter. W. Va. Code § 37-6A-2(a); § 37-6A-1 (definition of 'notice period') | Landlord must give the tenant a written itemization of any damages or charges deducted from the deposit. Landlord must keep itemized deduction records for 1 year after the tenancy ends and let the tenant inspect or copy them within 72 hours of a written request. W. Va. Code §§ 37-6A-2(a), 37-6A-3 | If the violation is willful or not in good faith, tenant recovers the unreturned deposit plus damages equal to 1.5 times the amount wrongfully withheld; any award is credited against rent the tenant owes. W. Va. Code § 37-6A-5(a) |
| Wisconsin | 21 days. If the tenant leaves on the termination date, the clock starts on that date. If the tenant leaves or is evicted early, it starts on the termination date, or when a new tenancy begins if the landlord re-rents first. If the tenant leaves after the termination date, it starts when the landlord learns the tenant has left or been removed. Wis. Stat. § 704.28(4); Wis. Admin. Code ATCP 134.06(2) | If anything is withheld, the landlord must give a written statement describing each item of damage or claim and the amount withheld for it, within the same 21-day deadline and by the same delivery method as the deposit. Normal wear and tear may never be deducted. Deductions not listed in § 704.28(1) are allowed only through a separate 'NONSTANDARD RENTAL PROVISIONS' document. Wis. Admin. Code ATCP 134.06(3)-(4); Wis. Stat. § 704.28(1)-(2) | Twice the tenant's pecuniary loss, plus costs and reasonable attorney fees, for violations of ATCP 134 (including deposit rules). Wis. Stat. § 100.20(5); Wis. Stat. § 704.95 |
| Wyoming | Within 30 days after the rental agreement ends, or within 15 days after the landlord receives the renter's new mailing address, whichever is later. If the unit is damaged, the deadline is extended by 30 days. W.S. 1-21-1208(a) | Landlord must deliver or mail a written itemization of deductions, with reasons, together with any balance. Allowed deductions: accrued rent, damage beyond reasonable wear and tear, the cost of cleaning to move-in condition, and other costs provided by contract. W.S. 1-21-1208(a) | If the owner unreasonably fails to comply, the renter may recover the full deposit plus court costs. If the owner wins and the court finds the renter's suit unreasonable, the owner may be awarded court costs. W.S. 1-21-1208(c) |
Related questions
- Can a landlord enter without notice or permission?
- Can a landlord evict you without going to court, change the locks or shut off utilities?
- Can I withhold rent for repairs?
- How long does an eviction take?
- How much notice does a landlord have to give before an eviction?
- Can a landlord raise the rent in the middle of a lease?
- How much notice does a landlord have to give to end a lease or not renew?
- How much can a landlord charge for a late fee?
- Can a landlord retaliate against a tenant for complaining?
- How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit?
- How long does a landlord have to sue for unpaid rent or damages?
- Can a landlord accept rent during an eviction?
- Can you be evicted in the winter?
- Can a landlord give an eviction notice by text or email?
- How much notice does a landlord have to give before raising the rent?
- Does a landlord have to give you a copy of the lease?
- What happens to tenants if the landlord goes into foreclosure?
- How long does a landlord have to keep a tenant's belongings?
- How do you remove a squatter?
- How much can a landlord charge for a rental application fee?
- What rental fees are illegal (junk fees)?
- Can I break my lease because of domestic violence?
- Can I break my lease for military orders, medical reasons or a death?
- Can a landlord refuse Section 8?
- Can an eviction be removed from your record?
- Do tenants get a free lawyer for an eviction?
- What are my rights without a written lease?
- Does a landlord have to fix mold?
- Who pays for pest control and bed bugs in a rental?
- Does a landlord have to provide heat?
- Does a landlord have to provide air conditioning?
- What can a landlord charge for at move-out (cleaning, painting, carpet)?
- Can a landlord put cameras in or around a rental?
- Can a landlord limit overnight guests or roommates?
- Can a landlord deny a service or emotional support animal?
- Can a landlord evict you for no reason?
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.