Security Deposit Return Deadline by State
We are building a lookup that shows each state's deadline to return a security deposit or send an itemized statement after move-out. Because these rules change and have important exceptions, we will not publish it until every state has been reviewed. Get notified below to hear when it launches.
Coming soon. Security deposit rules vary by state and city, change often, and have exceptions (for example, different deadlines when deductions are taken, interest requirements, and required delivery methods). We are verifying every state with legal review before publishing this tool.
Until then, check your state's statute or ask a local landlord-tenant attorney.
Assumptions & limits
- Not yet available: the state table requires legal verification before publishing.
Assumptions last reviewed 2026-10-18.
Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates for educational purposes only and is not legal, tax, lending or financial advice. Results depend on your inputs and simplifying assumptions. Confirm with a qualified lender, attorney, CPA or title/escrow professional before making decisions.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit?
It depends on the state, and sometimes the city. Deadlines commonly range from about 14 to 45 days after move-out, and some states set different deadlines depending on whether deductions are taken. Check your state statute or a local attorney until our reviewed lookup launches.
Prompts that pair with this calculator
Move-Out Instructions & Deposit Itemization Letter
New AddedDraft move-out instructions for a departing tenant and an itemized security deposit disposition letter, with a reminder to check state deadlines.
Move-In / Move-Out Inspection Checklist Generator
New AddedGenerate a room-by-room move-in or move-out inspection checklist tailored to the unit, with condition ratings, photo prompts and sign-off lines.
Related calculators
Prorated Rent Calculator
New AddedCalculate prorated rent for a mid-month move-in or move-out using actual days in the month, a 30-day month or a 365-day year.
Rent Late Fee Calculator
New AddedCalculate a rent late fee from your lease terms: flat or percentage fee, grace period, daily fees and caps. Math only; check your state and local limits.