Security deposit deadline calculator

Every state gives your landlord a legal deadline to return your deposit. Pick your state and move-out date to see exactly when it was — or will be — and what missing it costs them.

Deadlines and penalties come from each state's statute, verified against the legislature's published text — the same data behind our demand letters. Some states adjust the clock for forwarding addresses, itemization, or lease terms; the result shows your state's notes. General information, not legal advice.

Common questions

How is the deadline calculated?

From your move-out date plus your state's statutory return period — counted in calendar days, or business days where the statute says so (like Arizona). A few states run the clock from your written demand instead; the calculator tells you when that applies.

What happens when a landlord misses the deadline?

It depends on the state, but most impose real penalties: forfeiting the right to keep any of the deposit, and often statutory damages of double or triple the amount wrongfully withheld — sometimes plus attorney's fees. The calculator shows your state's exact rule and citation.

The deadline passed. What do I do now?

Send a formal demand letter citing the statute, the missed deadline, and the penalty — by certified mail, so there's a delivery record. Most landlords pay after receiving one. You can generate the letter here free.