Security Deposit Return Calculator — All
50 States
Security deposit disputes are one of the most common landlord-tenant conflicts in the country. Every state has rules governing how much a landlord can charge, how long they have to return the deposit after move-out, what deductions are allowed, and what penalties apply for non-compliance. Some states give landlords 14 days; others allow 60. Some impose double or triple damages for late returns. This free tool shows the exact rules for your state so you know your rights — whether you're a tenant waiting for your money or a landlord processing a move-out.
Important: This tool provides educational estimates only — not legal advice. Made For Law is not a law firm and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, county, or local government agency or court system. Calculator results are based on statutory formulas and publicly available fee schedules — not AI. Supporting content is AI-assisted and editorially reviewed. Results may not reflect recent legislative changes or your specific circumstances. Do not rely solely on these estimates — always verify with official sources and consult a licensed attorney before making legal or financial decisions. Full disclaimer
Calculate Your Security Deposit Rights
Enter your state to see return deadlines, deposit limits, allowable deductions, and penalty amounts.
Key Security Deposit Rules by State
Return Deadline
States set deadlines from 14 to 60 days after move-out. Missing the deadline can trigger automatic penalties.
Maximum Deposit
Many states cap security deposits at 1–2 months' rent. Some cities have stricter limits.
Allowable Deductions
Landlords can typically deduct for unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear, and cleaning costs if specified in the lease.
Penalties for Non-Return
States impose penalties ranging from the deposit amount to triple damages, plus attorney fees. Some require an itemized statement.
How to Get Your Security Deposit Back
- Document the condition. Take photos and video of the unit at move-in and move-out. This is your best evidence against unfair deductions.
- Give proper notice. Follow your lease terms and state law for move-out notice. Failure to give proper notice can forfeit your deposit.
- Request an itemized statement.Most states require landlords to provide a written list of deductions. If they don't, you may be entitled to the full deposit back.
- Send a demand letter. If the deadline passes without a return, a formal demand letter citing the state statute often resolves the issue without court.
- File in small claims court.If the landlord won't return the deposit, small claims court is fast, inexpensive, and doesn't require an attorney.
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Frequently asked questions
Edited and reviewed by our editorial team. Answers are general information — not legal advice.
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit?
Return deadlines vary by state: 14 days in many states (Delaware, Georgia, Iowa, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York), 21 days in California and Washington, 30 days in Florida, Illinois, and Texas, and up to 45 or 60 days in a few states. The clock typically starts at move-out or when the tenant provides a forwarding address, whichever is later. If a landlord misses the deadline without sending the deposit or an itemized statement, most states impose automatic penalties — sometimes double or triple damages.
What deductions can a landlord take from a security deposit?
Landlords may deduct unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear, cleaning costs if the unit is left in substantially dirtier condition than received, and unreturned keys or access devices. They generally cannot deduct for normal wear and tear — minor scuffs, small nail holes, carpet wear from normal use, or faded paint. Painting an entire unit after a short tenancy is rarely a valid deduction. Landlords must provide an itemized list of deductions with supporting receipts or estimates within the statutory deadline or forfeit the right to make deductions.
What is the maximum security deposit a landlord can charge?
Most states cap security deposits at 1–2 months' rent. California limits deposits to 2 months' rent for unfurnished units (3 months for furnished). New York caps at 1 month's rent for most residential leases. Some states have no statutory cap but limit deposits by market norms or local ordinance. A few states have no cap at all. Some localities (cities and counties) impose lower limits than state law — always check both state and local rules.
What happens if a landlord fails to return my deposit?
If a landlord fails to return the security deposit or provide an itemized statement within the statutory deadline, tenants typically have a legal claim for the full deposit amount plus penalties. Most states impose double damages (2x the deposit) for wrongful withholding; some states impose triple damages. The tenant usually must send a written demand letter before filing suit. Small claims court is the most common venue — the filing fee is typically under $100 and an attorney is not required. Tenants should document the unit's condition at move-out with timestamped photos.
Is a security deposit different from last month's rent?
Yes. A security deposit is held to cover potential damages or unpaid rent and must be returned (minus allowable deductions) after the tenancy ends. It cannot be used for last month's rent unless both parties agree, and some states prohibit using a security deposit as rent entirely. Last month's rent collected at the start of a tenancy is pre-paid rent — it belongs to the landlord immediately (as rent payment for that final month) and is not subject to security deposit return deadlines or deduction rules.
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