Landlords must return your security deposit within a set number of days after you move out. Miss that window and they risk penalties. Select your state to see your state’s deadline.
How to use this tool
Select your state and click Check deadline. The result shows the number of days your landlord has to return your deposit after the tenancy ends. The clock typically starts on the date you vacate, though some states measure from the date the landlord receives your forwarding address.
Understanding your results
The figure shown is the maximum number of days under your state’s landlord-tenant law. Some states have two timelines: a shorter one when no deductions are made, and a longer one when the landlord itemises deductions. This tool shows the longer (binding) deadline. If a landlord misses the deadline, they typically forfeit the right to make deductions and may owe the full deposit plus additional damages. Verify the exact rule with your state statute or a local tenant rights organisation.
Legal context
Every US state sets a statutory deadline by which a landlord must return a security deposit after a tenancy ends. The deadline is typically measured from the move-out date, though some states start the clock from the date the landlord receives the tenant’s forwarding address. Deadlines range from 14 days (Arizona, Hawaii, New York, Vermont) to 60 days (Arkansas, Kentucky, West Virginia). Missing the deadline is treated as a forfeiture in most states: the landlord loses the right to deduct for damages and must return the full deposit, often with additional statutory penalties. Always send your forwarding address in writing and document your move-out condition with photos.
Frequently asked questions
How many days does a landlord have to return a deposit in California?
In California, a landlord has 21 days from the date of move-out to return the security deposit along with an itemised statement of any deductions. If no deductions are made, the full deposit must still be returned within 21 days. A landlord who misses this deadline without good cause loses the right to make any deductions and must return the full amount. California Civil Code Section 1950.5 governs this requirement.
What is the deposit return deadline in Texas?
Texas landlords have 30 days from the date the tenant vacates to return the security deposit. If deductions are made, the landlord must include a written itemised list of the deductions. A landlord who fails to return the deposit within 30 days, or who deducts in bad faith, may be liable for three times the amount wrongfully withheld plus the tenant’s attorney fees under Texas Property Code Section 92.109.
How long does a landlord have to return a deposit in New York?
New York landlords have 14 days after a tenant moves out to return the deposit along with an itemised statement of deductions. This 14-day rule was introduced by the Housing Stability and Tenant Protection Act of 2019. A landlord who fails to meet this deadline forfeits the right to retain any portion of the deposit.
What is Florida’s deposit return timeline?
Florida landlords have 15 days to return the full deposit with no deductions, or 30 days to send written notice of intended deductions. If the landlord sends a deduction notice within 30 days, the tenant has 15 days to dispute it. A landlord who fails to follow Florida’s specific notice procedure loses the right to make any deductions. Florida Statutes Section 83.49 governs this process.
When does the deposit return clock start?
In most states, the clock starts on the date the tenant vacates the property. Some states start the clock when the landlord receives the tenant’s forwarding address. To protect yourself, provide your forwarding address in writing on the day you move out. Keep a copy of this notice. If you do not provide a forwarding address, the landlord’s obligation to return the deposit may be delayed or altered under some state laws.
What happens if the landlord misses the deadline?
In most states, a landlord who misses the statutory deadline forfeits the right to make deductions and must return the full deposit. Many states also impose additional penalties: double or triple the deposit amount, plus attorney fees. If your landlord has missed the deadline, send a written demand letter by recorded delivery. If they do not respond, you can file a claim in small claims court for the deposit plus any applicable statutory damages.
Does the deadline apply when a landlord sells the property?
When a property is sold, the deposit liability transfers to the new owner. The original landlord must either transfer the deposit to the new owner and notify the tenant in writing, or return it to the tenant. The deadline still applies, and tenants retain all rights to their deposit regardless of a change in ownership. If neither the old nor new landlord returns the deposit on time, both may be liable.
Can a landlord extend the return deadline?
No. State deposit return deadlines are statutory minimums that cannot be waived or extended by agreement in the lease. A lease clause that attempts to give the landlord more time than state law allows is unenforceable. The only exception is if the state law itself allows an extension in specific circumstances, such as when a tenant disputes the deductions or when the final utility bills have not arrived.
How should I document my move-out to protect my deposit?
Take timestamped photos and video of every room, appliance, and fixture on your move-out day. Compare the condition to any move-in inspection report and note any normal wear and tear. Return all keys and access devices and get a receipt. Send your forwarding address to the landlord in writing (email is acceptable in most states). Keep all of this documentation in case you need to dispute deductions.
What counts as normal wear and tear?
Normal wear and tear is the gradual, expected deterioration of a property through ordinary use. Examples include minor scuffs on walls, carpet pile worn flat in high-traffic areas, small nail holes from hanging pictures, and faded paint. Landlords cannot deduct for normal wear and tear in any US state. Deductible damage is something beyond normal use: large holes in walls, stained carpets, broken fixtures, or pet damage. If a landlord deducts for wear and tear, you can dispute the deduction in writing and, if necessary, in small claims court.
Related tools
Security Deposit Limit Checker | Deposit Deduction Calculator | Rent Increase Notice Checker