The Complete State-By-State Guide To Security Deposit Laws

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This guide reports what each state's security deposit statute says, with a link to the statute and the date we last checked it. It is general information, not legal advice, and state law changes. Confirm against the linked statute. In some states, cities and counties add their own rules; in others, state law forbids them.

What is a Security Deposit?

At the beginning of a tenancy, a landlord will usually collect a security deposit as a contingency should the property be damaged or the tenant fall into rent arrears. Upon termination or completion of the lease, if no damage has been done and the rent has been paid in full, the deposit will be returned to the tenant.

While that may sound simple, navigating security deposit laws can be a daunting task, as regulations can vary significantly from one jurisdiction to another. By breaking down the information on a state-by-state basis, we provide you with the knowledge you need to avoid any confusion that can arise from generalizing national regulations.

A few variations to security deposit laws by state include, the maximum deposit amount allowed, whether or not you have to pay interest on the deposit, when the deposit needs to be returned, and how long you have before you return the deposit.

Whether you're in Alabama or Wyoming, this state-by-state guide to security deposit laws will help equip you with the knowledge you need to understand the specific requirements and limitations that may affect you. However, it's important to remember that local regulations may also come into play.

How Much Can I Charge for a Security Deposit?

Depending on where your rental property is located, there is varying legislation regarding how much money can be charged for a security deposit. It is common for there to be a maximum deposit allowed of one or two months’ rent but some states have no specific laws.

Do Landlords Need to Pay Interest on Security Deposits?

Once you have determined how much to charge, you should familiarize yourself with whether or not landlords are expected to pay interest on security deposits in your state. Some states require landlords to keep deposits in an interest-bearing account and others require a minimum interest amount to be paid (for example, 5%). Where state law requires a security deposit to earn interest, the tenant will often be entitled to some or all of that interest, although the rules vary by state.

Security Deposit Laws By State

Below we break down the key security deposit laws that landlords need to know in each state.

Alabama

Maximum deposit: One month's rent. The statute bars a deposit "in excess of one month's periodic rent, except for pets, changes to the premises, or increased liability risks to the landlord or premises". It sets no limit on the extra amount.
Return deadline: 60 days "after termination of the tenancy and delivery of possession", with an itemized written notice of any deductions. The tenant must give a written forwarding address.
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Accrued rent, and "the amount of damages that the landlord has suffered by reason of the tenant's noncompliance with Section 35-9A-301". That section sets the tenant's duties, such as keeping the unit clean and safe and not damaging it.
Notes: A landlord who fails to mail a timely refund or accounting must pay the tenant "double the amount of the tenant's original deposit". An unclaimed deposit or check "shall be forfeited by the tenant after a period of 90 days".

Source: Ala. Code § 35-9A-201 · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: Alabama Landlord Tenant State Laws

Alaska

Maximum deposit: Two months' rent, counting prepaid rent and deposit together ("prepaid rent or a security deposit, however denominated, in an amount or value in excess of two months' periodic rent"). The whole of AS 34.03.070, including the cap, the return deadlines, the trust-account rule and the penalty, does not apply "to rental units where the rent exceeds $2,000 a month".
Return deadline: 14 days "after the tenancy is terminated and possession is delivered" where the landlord or tenant gave notice complying with AS 34.03.290, or 30 days if the landlord deducts for damages. 30 days where the tenant did not give compliant notice.
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest. The deposit must be held, "wherever practicable", in a trust account in a bank, savings and loan association, or licensed escrow agent.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Accrued rent, and damages from the tenant's breach of AS 34.03.120: deterioration of the premises or its contents, excluding "normal wear and tear" and deterioration the landlord caused. Professional carpet cleaning may be required if the carpets were professionally cleaned just before the tenancy.
Notes: A separate pet deposit of up to one month's rent is allowed, except for a service animal, and it "may be applied only to the amount of damages that are directly related to the pet". For willful noncompliance, the tenant may recover up to "twice the actual amount withheld".

Source: AS 34.03.070 · AS 34.03.120 · Verified 24 September 2026

Reference: Alaska Landlord Tenant Laws

Arizona

Maximum deposit: One and a half months' rent, including prepaid rent. A landlord may not demand or receive security "of more than one and one-half month's rent". A tenant may still voluntarily pay more rent in advance.
Return deadline: "Within fourteen days, excluding Saturdays, Sundays or other legal holidays", after the tenancy ends, the tenant delivers possession and the tenant demands the deposit. The landlord must send an itemized list of deductions with any refund.
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest for residential tenancies. Mobile home park tenancies are different: the landlord must pay "not less than five per cent annual interest" (A.R.S. § 33-1431).
What can be deducted from the deposit: Rent owed; charges "as specified in the signed lease agreement"; and damages from the tenant's failure to meet the tenant duties in § 33-1341 (for example, deliberately or negligently damaging the premises).
Notes: A wrongful withholding carries damages of "twice the amount wrongfully withheld". The purpose of any nonrefundable fee must be stated in writing, and "Any fee or deposit not designated as nonrefundable is refundable". Mobile home park deposits are capped at "two months' rent" (§ 33-1431).

Source: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 33-1321; Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 33-1431 · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: Arizona Landlord Tenant State Laws

Arkansas

Maximum deposit: Two months' rent. A landlord "may not demand or receive a security deposit, however denominated, in an amount or value in excess of two (2) months periodic rent."
Return deadline: 60 days. "Within sixty (60) days of termination of the tenancy", the landlord must return the deposit, less any deductions itemized in a written notice to the tenant.
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Accrued unpaid rent and "any damages which the landlord has suffered by reason of the tenant's noncompliance with the rental agreement", itemized in a written notice to the tenant.
Notes: These rules do not apply to an individual who, with their spouse, minor children and their rental entities, owns "five (5) or fewer dwelling units", unless a third party manages the units for a fee. Wrongful withholding can carry damages of "two (2) times the amount wrongfully withheld".

Source: Ark. Code Ann. §§ 18-16-303 to -306 · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: Arkansas Landlord Tenant Law

California

Maximum deposit: One month's rent. Two months' if the landlord is a natural person, or an LLC whose members are all natural persons, owning no more than two residential rental properties with no more than four units in total. The two-month exception does not apply if the prospective tenant is a service member.
Return deadline: 21 days. "No later than 21 calendar days after the tenant has vacated the premises", the landlord must send an itemized statement of the deposit and its disposition and return any remaining portion.
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires it.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Unpaid rent; repair of damage "exclusive of ordinary wear and tear"; cleaning "necessary to return the unit to the same level of cleanliness it was in at the inception of the tenancy"; and, where the lease allows, remedying future defaults in an obligation to "restore, replace, or return personal property or appurtenances".
Notes: The current caps do not apply to a deposit "collected or demanded by the landlord before July 1, 2024." When deductions for repairs and cleaning together exceed $125, the statement must include copies of the bills or receipts and photos; below that, the tenant can still request them within 14 days. Since 1 January 2026, if the landlord received the deposit or rent electronically, the remainder must be returned electronically unless the parties agree in writing on another method. A bad-faith claim or retention can bring statutory damages of up to twice the deposit, plus actual damages.

Source: Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5 · Verified 24 September 2026

Reference: California Landlord Tenant Law

Colorado

Maximum deposit: Two months' rent. A landlord may not require a deposit that "exceeds the amount of two monthly rent payments under the rental agreement" (C.R.S. 38-12-102.5, in force since 7 August 2023).
Return deadline: 30 days after the lease ends or the tenant surrenders the premises, whichever is later. A lease may set a longer period, "but not to exceed sixty days".
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Only reasonable amounts for unpaid rent, unpaid utility charges, "other lawful charges listed in the lease", and necessary repairs for damage "that exceed normal wear and tear and did not preexist the tenancy". Nothing may be kept for normal wear and tear or pre-existing damage.
Notes: Since 1 January 2026, whole-unit repainting needs substantial paint damage throughout the unit, and carpet not replaced with new carpet in the 10 years before the lease ends cannot count as substantially and irreparably damaged. These rules do not apply to mobile home park lots. From 1 January 2027 the cap will not apply to post-closing occupancy agreements (SB26-054).

Source: C.R.S. 38-12-102.5 (SB23-184); C.R.S. 38-12-103 as amended by HB25-1249; SB26-054 · Verified 24 September 2026

Reference: Colorado Landlord Tenant State Laws

Connecticut

Maximum deposit: Two months' rent ("shall not demand a security deposit in an amount that exceeds two months' rent"). One month's rent for a tenant "sixty-two years of age or older".
Return deadline: 21 days after the tenancy ends, or 15 days after "receiving written notification of such tenant's forwarding address, whichever is later".
Interest on security deposits: Required, at no less than the Department of Banking deposit index (0.49% for 2026). Paid to the tenant or credited toward the next rent on each tenancy anniversary. None is due for a month rent was over 10 days late, "unless the landlord imposes a late charge".
What can be deducted from the deposit: Only damages from the tenant's failure to meet the tenant's obligations: rent or utility payments "due the landlord", the tenant duties in § 47a-11 (such as not damaging the premises and keeping it clean), and "the actual reasonable cost of changing the locks" under § 47a-7b.
Notes: The landlord must hold the deposit in escrow at a financial institution located in Connecticut. A tenant who turns 62 after paying may ask for the excess back. A landlord who misses the return deadline is "liable for twice the amount of any security deposit paid by such tenant".

Source: Conn. Gen. Stat. § 47a-21 · CT Department of Banking, deposit index and interest rates · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: Connecticut Landlord Tenant State Laws

Delaware

Maximum deposit: One month's rent where the agreement is "for 1 year or more", and for month-to-month or undefined-term tenancies once they have "lasted 1 year or more". No state statute sets a maximum for fixed leases under a year. The limits "shall not apply to furnished rental units".
Return deadline: 20 days: the landlord "shall remit the security deposit within 20 days of the expiration or termination of the rental agreement". Failing to send an itemized list of damages in that time "shall constitute an acknowledgment by the landlord that no payment for damages is due".
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest. The deposit must be placed "in an escrow bank account in a federally-insured banking institution with an office that accepts deposits within the State".
What can be deducted from the deposit: Damage by the tenant beyond "normal wear and tear" or that "cannot be corrected by painting and ordinary cleaning". Unpaid rent, including late charges and rent due after early termination or abandonment. Reasonable renovating and re-renting costs after early termination (at most one month's rent under § 5314).
Notes: A separate pet deposit of up to one month's rent is allowed, but not for a "duly certified and trained support animal for a disabled person". Missing the 20-day deadline entitles the tenant to "double the amount wrongfully withheld".

Source: 25 Del. C. § 5514 · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: Delaware Landlord Tenant State Laws

Florida

Maximum deposit: No state statute sets a maximum.
Return deadline: 15 days if the landlord makes no claim. To claim, the landlord must send written notice by certified mail, or by e-mail where both parties have signed the e-mail notice addendum required by § 83.505, "within 30 days after the termination of the rental agreement", or it "forfeits the right to impose a claim". The tenant has 15 days to object. The balance is due 30 days after the notice.
Interest on security deposits: Depends on how the deposit is held. None is owed on a separate non-interest-bearing Florida account. An interest-bearing account pays the tenant at least 75% of the annualized average rate or 5% simple, "whichever the landlord elects". A surety bond requires 5% simple interest.
What can be deducted from the deposit: The statute sets no list of deductions. It prescribes a procedure: the landlord may impose "a claim on the deposit" by giving the required written notice with "the reason for imposing the claim".
Notes: State law preempts local rules: Fla. Stat. § 83.425 "supersedes any local government regulations on matters covered under this part, including, but not limited to, ... security deposits". Interest is paid or credited "at least once annually", and none is owed "to a tenant who wrongfully terminates his or her tenancy before the end of the rental term".

Source: Fla. Stat. § 83.49 · Fla. Stat. § 83.425 · Verified 24 September 2026

Reference: Florida Landlord Tenant State Laws

Georgia

Maximum deposit: Two months' rent. No landlord may demand or receive a deposit that "exceeds the equivalent of two months' rent". This applies to leases "entered into or renewed on or after July 1, 2024".
Return deadline: 30 days. The landlord must return the deposit "Within 30 days after obtaining possession of the premises". Any amount kept needs a written statement of "the exact reasons for the retention", including the move-out damage list where damages are claimed.
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest. The deposit must be held in trust in an escrow account "established only for that purpose", or covered by a surety bond, and the tenant must be told in writing where the account is.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Unpaid rent and late fees, abandonment of the premises, unpaid utility charges, and unpaid pet fees. Also repair work or cleaning "contracted for by the tenant with third parties", "actual damages caused by the tenant's breach, provided that the landlord attempts to mitigate the actual damages", and damage beyond ordinary wear and tear caused by "negligence, carelessness, accident, or abuse" by the tenant, household, invitees or guests. Nothing for "ordinary wear and tear".
Notes: The escrow, bond and related rules (§§ 44-7-31 to 44-7-33 and 44-7-35) do not apply to a natural person who, with spouse and minor children, owns "ten or fewer rental units", unless a third party manages them for a fee. The two-month cap and the return rule still apply. For other landlords, missing the statement deadline forfeits the right to withhold, and improper withholding carries "three times the sum improperly withheld plus reasonable attorney's fees", limited to "the sum erroneously withheld" where the landlord proves the withholding falls within the statute's error exception.

Source: O.C.G.A. §§ 44-7-30.1, 44-7-31, 44-7-34, 44-7-35, 44-7-36 · Verified 25 September 2026

Reference: Georgia Landlord Tenant State Laws

Hawaii

Maximum deposit: One month's rent ("not in excess of a sum equal to one month's rent"), plus an optional pet deposit of up to one more month's rent. At the start of the tenancy the landlord may not take "any money other than the money for the first month's rent and a security deposit".
Return deadline: 14 days: the deposit "shall be returned to the tenant not later than fourteen days after the termination of the rental agreement". Any deduction needs a written notice with evidence of the costs, such as estimates or invoices, unless the tenant wrongfully quit the unit.
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Only the listed items "and no others": damage from breach of the tenant's § 521-51 duties ("reasonable wear and tear excepted"), unpaid rent, unreturned keys including key fobs, cleaning to move-in condition, damages when a tenant "wrongfully quits", pet damage, and landlord-provided utilities not included in rent.
Notes: The pet deposit may not be charged "for an assistance animal that is a reasonable accommodation for a tenant with a disability". A landlord who misses the 14-day deadline "shall not be entitled to retain the security deposit or any part of it". Willful wrongful retention can bring an award of "three times the amount".

Source: Haw. Rev. Stat. § 521-44 · Haw. Rev. Stat. § 521-51 · Verified 24 September 2026

Reference: Hawaii Landlord Tenant Laws

Idaho

Maximum deposit: No state statute sets a maximum.
Return deadline: 21 days after the tenant surrenders the premises if the agreement fixes no other time, and "in any event, within thirty (30) days". A partial refund must come with "a signed statement itemizing the amounts lawfully retained".
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest. Deposits for premises "managed by a third-party manager of a landlord" must be kept "in a separate account at a federally insured financial institution". This does not apply to property owners, real estate licensees and certain others.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Only "amounts necessary to cover the contingencies specified in the deposit arrangement". The landlord may not keep any part of the deposit "to cover normal wear and tear".
Notes: Any amount paid "for any purpose other than the payment of rent" counts as a security deposit.

Source: Idaho Code § 6-321 · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: Idaho Landlord Tenant Laws

Illinois

Maximum deposit: No state statute sets a maximum.
Return deadline: 45 days. A full refund is due "within 45 days of the date that the lessee vacated the premises". To withhold for property damage, the landlord must give an itemized statement, with paid receipts, within 30 days of vacating or the end of possession, whichever is later.
Interest on security deposits: Required where a building or contiguous complex has 25 or more units and the deposit is held over 6 months, at the largest commercial bank's passbook rate on the prior 31 December. Interest of $5 or more is paid within 30 days after each 12-month period, "except when the lessee is in default". Public housing is excluded.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Unpaid rent and damage to the leased premises. If a written lease specifies the cost of cleaning, repair or replacement of a component, the landlord may withhold that amount, but costs specified in a lease "shall be for damage beyond normal wear and tear".
Notes: Where repair costs are estimated, paid receipts must follow "within 30 days from the date the statement showing estimated cost was furnished". The statement may be delivered by e-mail to a verified address. Interest rules are in the Security Deposit Interest Act (765 ILCS 715).

Source: 765 ILCS 710 · 765 ILCS 715 · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: Illinois Landlord Tenant State Laws

Indiana

Maximum deposit: No state statute sets a maximum.
Return deadline: 45 days: an itemized notice of deductions must be delivered "not more than forty-five (45) days after termination of the rental agreement and delivery of possession". The landlord is not liable until the tenant gives a written mailing address.
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Only damage "not the result of ordinary wear and tear", unpaid rent, "rent due for premature termination of the rental agreement by the tenant", utility or sewer charges the tenant owed under the lease but the landlord paid, and the last month's rent if a written agreement says so.
Notes: Cities and counties may not regulate security deposits, and any ordinance or regulation that does "is void and unenforceable" (IC 32-31-1-20). The bar has an exception for government-subsidized reduced-rent housing.

Source: Ind. Code §§ 32-31-3-12 to -14 · IC 32-31-1-20 · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: Indiana Landlord Tenant State Laws

Iowa

Maximum deposit: Two months' rent. The landlord may not take a deposit "in excess of two months' rent".
Return deadline: 30 days from both the end of the tenancy and "receipt of the tenant's mailing address or delivery instructions". A landlord who misses the 30-day written statement "shall forfeit all rights to withhold any portion".
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest. The deposit must be held in a federally insured bank, savings and loan or credit union, and "may be an interest-bearing account". Interest earned "during the first five years of a tenancy" belongs to the landlord.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Only amounts reasonably necessary for unpaid rent or "other funds due to the landlord pursuant to the rental agreement", restoring the unit to its move-in condition ("ordinary wear and tear excepted"), and recovering possession from a tenant who "does not act in good faith" in failing to leave.
Notes: Bad-faith retention exposes the landlord to punitive damages "not to exceed twice the monthly rental payment". If no mailing address arrives "within one year from the termination of the tenancy the rental deposit shall revert to the landlord".

Source: Iowa Code § 562A.12 · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: Iowa Landlord Tenant Laws

Kansas

Maximum deposit: One month's rent for unfurnished units: not "in excess of one month's periodic rent". If the tenant uses the landlord's furniture, "not to exceed 1½ months' rent".
Return deadline: If deductions are made, the balance is due "within 14 days after the determination of the amount", and "in no event to exceed 30 days after termination of the tenancy, delivery of possession and demand by the tenant". Without a demand within 30 days, the landlord must mail it to the tenant's last known address.
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest. The general deposit statute is silent on who keeps any interest. The rule "Any interest earned on a security deposit shall be the property of the landlord" applies to mobile-home parks (K.S.A. 58-25,108).
What can be deducted from the deposit: Accrued rent, and damages from the tenant's noncompliance with K.S.A. 58-2555 and the rental agreement, "all as itemized by the landlord in a written notice delivered to the tenant".
Notes: If the rental agreement permits pets, the landlord may take an additional deposit "not to exceed ½ of one month's rent". If the landlord fails to comply with the return rules, the tenant may recover the portion of the deposit due "together with damages in an amount equal to 1½ the amount wrongfully withheld".

Source: K.S.A. 58-2550 · Verified 24 September 2026

Reference: Kansas Landlord Tenant Laws

Kentucky

Maximum deposit: No state statute sets a maximum.
Return deadline: No fixed return deadline. If the tenant leaves without paying the last month's rent and does not demand the deposit, the landlord may apply it to the debt "after thirty (30) days". If a refund is due, the landlord must notify the tenant and may keep it if there is no response "within sixty (60) days".
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest. The deposit must be kept in an account "used only for that purpose" at a regulated bank or lending institution, and prospective tenants must be told its location and account number.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Damage recorded on signed move-in and move-out damage listings, and an unpaid last month's rent. A landlord who did not use the separate account and provide both damage listings may not retain "any portion of a security deposit".
Notes: These rules apply only where a city, county or urban-county government has adopted Kentucky's Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, which must be adopted "in their entirety and without amendment" (KRS 383.500). No other local ordinance may regulate these subjects.

Source: KRS 383.580, KRS 383.500 · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: Kentucky Landlord Tenant State Laws

Louisiana

Maximum deposit: No state statute sets a maximum.
Return deadline: The deposit must be returned "within one month after the lease shall terminate". Since 1 August 2026 (Act 63 of 2026), an itemized statement for anything kept is due within one month, "or within fifteen days after the date that is one month after the tenancy terminates". These rules do not apply if the tenant abandons the premises.
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Amounts "reasonably necessary to remedy a default of the tenant or to remedy unreasonable wear to the premises".
Notes: For willful failure to comply, the tenant may recover the portion wrongfully retained plus "three hundred dollars or twice the amount of the portion of the security deposit wrongfully retained, whichever is greater" (R.S. 9:3252). "Failure to remit within thirty days after written demand for a refund shall constitute willful failure." The tenant "shall furnish the lessor a forwarding address".

Source: La. R.S. 9:3251, as amended by Acts 2026, No. 63, La. R.S. 9:3252 · Verified 24 September 2026

Reference: Louisiana Landlord Tenant State Laws

Maine

Maximum deposit: Two months' rent. The landlord "may not require a security deposit equivalent to more than the rent for 2 months."
Return deadline: Written lease: within the time stated in the lease, "not to exceed 30 days". Tenancy at will: "within 21 days after the termination of the tenancy or the surrender and acceptance of the premises, whichever occurs later." Any retention needs a written itemized statement.
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest. The deposit may not be commingled and must be held in a bank or other financial institution account "beyond the claim of creditors of the landlord". On request, the landlord must disclose the institution and account number.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Not "normal wear and tear". The statute's non-exhaustive list of reasons is "storing and disposing of unclaimed property, nonpayment of rent and nonpayment of utility charges that the tenant was required to pay directly to the landlord."
Notes: The rules do not apply to a building of no more than 5 units, one of which the landlord occupies (§ 6037). A landlord who misses the deadline "shall forfeit his right to withhold any portion of the security deposit" (§ 6033). Wrongful retention carries double damages (§ 6034).

Source: 14 M.R.S. § 6032, 14 M.R.S. ch. 710-A, §§ 6031–6039 · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: Maine Landlord Tenant State Laws

Maryland

Maximum deposit: One month's rent per dwelling unit, "regardless of the number of tenants". Up to two months' rent is allowed if the tenant qualifies for Department of Human Services utility assistance, the lease requires utility payments directly to the landlord, and both agree in writing.
Return deadline: 45 days. "Within 45 days after the end of the tenancy, the landlord shall return the security deposit". Any written list of damages goes by first-class mail within the same 45 days.
Interest on security deposits: Required on deposits of $50 or more held at least 6 months. Simple interest accrues monthly at the one-year U.S. Treasury yield curve rate as of the first business day of each year, or 1.5% a year, whichever is greater. The deposit is held in a Maryland branch account devoted exclusively to security deposits.
What can be deducted from the deposit: "Unpaid rent, damage due to breach of lease or for damage by the tenant or the tenant's family, agents, employees, guests or invitees in excess of ordinary wear and tear". Lost future rent is reduced by any rent received from re-letting.
Notes: The landlord must mail an itemized list of damages with supporting documentation within 45 days, or forfeits the right to withhold for damages. The tenant may attend the move-out inspection by giving notice by certified mail at least 15 days before moving. The cap fell from two months' rent to one on 1 October 2024.

Source: Md. Code, Real Prop. § 8-203; 2024 Md. Laws ch. 124 · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: Maryland Landlord Tenant Law

Massachusetts

Maximum deposit: One month's rent: "a security deposit equal to the first month's rent". At or before move-in, neither the landlord nor the landlord's agent may require the tenant to pay, "to the lessor or to an agent of the lessor", more than first month's rent, last month's rent, that deposit, and the cost of a new lock and key. The limit has covered payments to the landlord's agent since 1 August 2025.
Return deadline: 30 days. The landlord must return the deposit "within thirty days after the termination of occupancy" under a tenancy-at-will, or after the end of a written lease.
Interest on security deposits: Required. The deposit is held "in a separate, interest-bearing account in a bank, located within the commonwealth". Held a year or longer, it earns 5% a year or the lower rate the bank pays. Accrued interest is due within 30 days if the tenancy ends before an anniversary.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Only unpaid rent or water charges, unpaid real estate tax increases under a valid tax escalation clause, and reasonable repair costs for tenant damage, "reasonable wear and tear excluded". Damage needs a sworn, itemized list with written evidence of cost within 30 days.
Notes: The tenant gets a signed receipt when the deposit is paid. A statement of condition is due when the deposit is received or within 10 days of the tenancy starting, whichever is later. Within 30 days, a bank receipt must show the bank's name and location, the amount and the account number. Last month's rent paid in advance also earns interest. Since 1 August 2025, a broker's fee is paid only by the party that hired the broker. The state housing office may issue regulations allowing an optional fee in lieu of a deposit, with fees and any deposit capped at one month's rent in total. Vacation rentals of 100 days or less are exempt.

Source: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 186, § 15B · Acts 2025, ch. 9, §§ 43, 54–55, 136 · Verified 25 September 2026

Reference: Massachusetts Landlord Tenant State Laws

Michigan

Maximum deposit: One and a half months' rent. The deposit "shall not exceed 1 1/2 months' rent."
Return deadline: 30 days. To claim damages, the landlord must mail an itemized notice of damages "within 30 days after the termination of occupancy". The balance goes with the notice by check or money order. Since 21 September 2026, the landlord may instead pay it by direct deposit or electronic transfer within 10 days after mailing the notice. Failing to give the notice "constitutes agreement by the landlord that no damages are due", and the full deposit must be returned immediately.
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest. The deposit must be held in a regulated financial institution. A landlord who files a cash or surety bond with the Secretary of State may use the funds.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Only: actual damage to the rental unit or any ancillary facility from "conduct not reasonably expected in the normal course of habitation of a dwelling"; rent owed, including "rent due for premature termination of the rental agreement by the tenant"; and utility bills the tenant did not pay.
Notes: The landlord must give the tenant a written notice within 14 days of possession, including the forwarding-address warning. The tenant must give a forwarding address in writing within 4 days of moving out, or the landlord is relieved of the damages-notice requirement. The tenant has 7 days to respond to the notice by mail. To keep a disputed amount, the landlord must sue within 45 days and get a money judgment. The exceptions are: the tenant gave no forwarding address, the tenant did not respond to the notice, the parties agreed in writing, or the claim is entirely unpaid rent for a period of possession. Failing to comply waives the damages claimed and makes the landlord liable for double the amount kept.

Source: MCL §§ 554.601–554.613 · 2026 PA 102 (SB 22) · Verified 25 September 2026

Reference: Michigan Landlord Tenant State Laws

Minnesota

Maximum deposit: No state statute sets a maximum.
Return deadline: 21 days: the landlord must return the deposit with interest, or give a written statement of the reasons for withholding, "within three weeks after termination of the tenancy", once the tenant's mailing address is received. Five days if the tenant leaves because the building is condemned.
Interest on security deposits: Required. The deposit earns 1% simple, non-compounded interest from the first day of the month after it is paid in full, until the end of the month in which the landlord returns it or sends the withholding statement. Amounts under $1 are excluded.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Only amounts "reasonably necessary" to cover unpaid rent "or ... other funds due to the landlord pursuant to an agreement", and to restore the unit to its move-in condition, "ordinary wear and tear excepted".
Notes: The tenant may not withhold the last month's rent on the grounds that "the deposit should serve as payment for the rent". The landlord must give notice of the tenant's right to request initial and move-out inspections (Minn. Stat. § 504B.182). Failing to do so carries a penalty under § 504B.178, subd. 4.

Source: Minn. Stat. § 504B.178 · Minn. Stat. § 504B.182 · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: Minnesota Landlord Tenant State Laws

Mississippi

Maximum deposit: No state statute sets a maximum.
Return deadline: The remainder must be returned "no later than forty-five (45) days after the termination of his tenancy, the delivery of possession and demand by the tenant".
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Only amounts "reasonably necessary" for unpaid rent, damage "caused by the tenant, exclusive of ordinary wear and tear", cleaning "upon termination of the tenancy", and "other reasonable and necessary expenses incurred as the result of the tenant's default". The landlord must itemize the amounts claimed in a written notice.
Notes: Bad-faith retention may subject the landlord to "damages not to exceed Two Hundred Dollars ($200.00) in addition to any actual damages."

Source: Miss. Code Ann. § 89-8-21 · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: Mississippi Landlord Tenant Laws

Missouri

Maximum deposit: Two months' rent ("may not demand or receive a security deposit in excess of two months' rent"). A pet deposit falls outside the statutory definition of a security deposit, so it is not counted.
Return deadline: 30 days: "Within thirty days after the date of termination of the tenancy", the landlord must return the full deposit or give a written itemized list of the damages for any amount withheld, with the balance.
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest. Any interest earned "shall be the property of the landlord". The deposit must be held in a federally insured bank, credit union or depository institution. Housing authorities and other government landlords are exempt from these holding rules.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Only amounts "reasonably necessary" for unpaid rent, restoring the unit to move-in condition ("ordinary wear and tear excepted"), agreed carpet cleaning actually paid for where the lease gives the required notice, and actual damages from inadequate notice to end the tenancy, subject to a duty to mitigate.
Notes: The tenant may attend the move-out inspection. Wrongful withholding carries damages of "twice the amount wrongfully withheld". The tenant may not apply the deposit to rent.

Source: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 535.300 · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: Missouri Landlord Tenant State Laws

Montana

Maximum deposit: No state statute sets a maximum.
Return deadline: 30 days after the tenancy ends or the premises are surrendered and accepted, "whichever occurs first". If there is no damage, cleaning or unpaid rent, and the tenant shows no utilities are unpaid, the landlord "shall return the security deposit within 10 days."
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Only damage caused by the tenant, "unpaid rent, late charges, utilities, penalties due under lease provisions, and other money owing to the landlord", and "actual cleaning expenses, including a reasonable charge for the landlord's labor". Cleaning charges require prior written notice and 24 hours to cure. That requirement lapses if the tenant leaves without notice, or if the tenancy ended under 70-24-427 or 70-33-427 and the landlord has a pending court claim.
Notes: The landlord must give a written move-in condition statement. Without it, the landlord "is barred from recovering any sum for damage to or cleaning of the leasehold premises" unless proven by clear and convincing evidence (70-25-206). The deadlines do not apply where the tenancy ended under 70-24-427 or 70-33-427 and the landlord has "a pending claim filed in court".

Source: MCA 70-25-201, MCA 70-25-201 to -206 · Verified 24 September 2026

Reference: Montana Landlord Tenant State Laws

Nebraska

Maximum deposit: One month's rent: not "in excess of one month's periodic rent". A pet deposit of up to one-fourth of a month's rent may be added "when appropriate".
Return deadline: 14 days. The balance and "a written itemization shall be delivered or mailed to the tenant within fourteen days after the date of termination of the tenancy."
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Rent, and "the amount of damages which the landlord has suffered by reason of the tenant's noncompliance with the rental agreement or section 76-1421."
Notes: The cap does not apply to housing agencies under the Nebraska Housing Agency Act. The tenant is not liable for damages tied to removal by a governmental entity when the unit is unfit because of the landlord's neglect.

Source: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 76-1416 · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: Nebraska Landlord Tenant Laws

Nevada

Maximum deposit: Three months' rent. The landlord may not take a deposit, surety bond or both, "including the last month's rent, whose total amount or value exceeds 3 months' periodic rent".
Return deadline: 30 days: the landlord must return any remaining deposit "no later than 30 days after the termination of the tenancy", with "an itemized, written accounting of the disposition".
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Only amounts "reasonably necessary" for unpaid rent, damage "caused by the tenant other than normal wear", and "the reasonable costs of cleaning the premises".
Notes: A tenant may use a surety bond in place of all or part of the deposit only "if the landlord consents". A deposit may not be non-refundable, except a reasonable non-refundable cleaning charge. Missing the 30-day deadline makes the landlord liable for the whole deposit plus up to the same amount again.

Source: NRS 118A.242 · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: Nevada Landlord Tenant Laws

New Hampshire

Maximum deposit: One month's rent or $100, whichever is greater. A deposit includes "all funds in excess of the monthly rent which are transferred from the tenant to the landlord for any purpose."
Return deadline: 30 days. The landlord must return the deposit "and pay the interest due, if any, within 30 days from the termination of the tenancy."
Interest on security deposits: Required where the landlord holds the deposit "for a period of one year or longer", at the regular-savings rate of the New Hampshire bank, savings and loan or credit union holding it. Pooled deposits earn each tenant a proportional share of actual interest. The tenant may request accrued interest every 3 years.
What can be deducted from the deposit: The "costs of repair" for damage "excluding reasonable wear and tear", itemized with evidence of repair; "unpaid rent"; "other lawful charges due under the lease which remain unpaid"; and any lease-required share of real-estate-tax increases.
Notes: The landlord must give a signed receipt, except when the deposit is paid by check. The tenant must be told to report conditions needing repair within 5 days of occupancy. Exempt: an owner of a single-family rental with no other rental property, and owner-occupied buildings of 5 units or less (except units occupied by someone 60 or older).

Source: RSA 540-A:5–:7 · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: New Hampshire Landlord Tenant Laws

New Jersey

Maximum deposit: One and a half months' rent: no more than "1 1/2 times 1 month's rental". Any additional deposit collected in a year may not exceed 10 percent of the current deposit.
Return deadline: "Within 30 days after the termination of the tenant's lease", by personal delivery, registered or certified mail, with an itemized list of deductions. On the tenant's demand, it is 5 business days after displacement by fire, flood, condemnation or evacuation where the premises are officially posted or certified as uninhabitable, and 15 business days after a lease ends under the Safe Housing Act (domestic violence).
Interest on security deposits: Required. Landlords with 10 or more rental units use an insured New Jersey money market fund or a variable-rate account at a New Jersey bank. Smaller landlords use a New Jersey time or savings account. The interest belongs to the tenant, paid in cash or credited to rent annually.
What can be deducted from the deposit: "Any charges expended in accordance with the terms of a contract, lease, or agreement", plus unpaid rent at the time of a displacement. No deductions may be made while the tenant remains in possession.
Notes: Within 30 days of receiving the deposit, the landlord must give written notice of the institution, account type, interest rate and amount. A court awards double the amount due when the tenant wins. The Act does not apply to owner-occupied premises with "not more than two rental units" unless the tenant gives 30 days' written notice invoking it. Seasonal rentals (not more than 125 consecutive days, to a tenant with a permanent residence elsewhere) are exempt only from the account-deposit requirement.

Source: N.J. Stat. § 46:8-19; N.J. Stat. § 46:8-21.1; N.J. Stat. § 46:8-21.2; N.J. Stat. § 46:8-26 · Verified 25 September 2026

Reference: New Jersey Landlord Tenant State Laws

New Mexico

Maximum deposit: One month's rent where the rental agreement is for less than one year: the landlord may not demand a deposit "in excess of one month's rent". For a lease of a year or more, no state statute sets a numeric maximum, but the deposit must be "reasonable".
Return deadline: 30 days: "within thirty days of the date of termination of the rental agreement or resident departure, whichever is later."
Interest on security deposits: Required under an annual rental agreement where the deposit is more than one month's rent. The landlord must pay the tenant interest annually at "the passbook interest permitted to savings and loan associations in this state by the federal home loan bank board".
What can be deducted from the deposit: Unpaid rent and utilities, repair work, damages caused by the tenant's noncompliance with the rental agreement or § 47-8-22, and "other legitimate damages". No deposit may be retained "to cover normal wear and tear".
Notes: A landlord who misses the 30-day deadline forfeits the right to withhold any part of the deposit (§ 47-8-18(D)).

Source: NMSA 1978 § 47-8-18 · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: New Mexico Landlord Tenant Laws

New York

Maximum deposit: One month's rent: "No deposit or advance shall exceed the amount of one month's rent". The same cap applies to rent-stabilized units. The cap does not apply to rent-controlled units, certain senior, assisted-living and retirement communities, registered seasonal-use units, or owner-occupied co-ops.
Return deadline: 14 days. "Within fourteen days after the tenant has vacated the premises", the landlord must give an itemized statement and return the rest, or "forfeit any right to retain any portion of the deposit."
Interest on security deposits: Required for property "containing six or more family dwelling units": the deposit goes in an interest-bearing account at a New York banking organization at the prevailing local rate. The landlord may keep 1% a year as administration expenses. The balance belongs to the tenant, held in trust or paid annually.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Only "reasonable and itemized costs" for "non-payment of rent, damage caused by the tenant beyond normal wear and tear, non-payment of utility charges payable directly to the landlord under the terms of the lease or tenancy, and moving and storage of the tenant's belongings". No deduction for ordinary wear and tear or a prior tenant's damage.
Notes: The landlord must give the tenant written notice of the right to an inspection before move-out. No deduction may be taken for conditions noted in the move-in inspection agreement. Interest is governed by § 7-103, and rent-stabilized units by § 7-107.

Source: N.Y. Gen. Oblig. Law § 7-108 · § 7-107 · § 7-103 · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: New York Landlord Tenant State Laws

North Carolina

Maximum deposit: Two weeks' rent for a week-to-week tenancy, one and a half months' rent for month-to-month, and two months' rent "for terms greater than month to month."
Return deadline: 30 days: "no later than 30 days after termination of the tenancy and delivery of possession". If the claim cannot be determined in that time, the landlord must give an interim accounting within 30 days and a final accounting within 60 days.
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest. The deposit must be held in a trust account with a licensed and federally insured depository institution, or the landlord may furnish a bond.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Only the uses the statute lists: unpaid rent and certain water, sewer and electric charges, damage to the premises, losses from an unfinished rental period, and unpaid bills that become a lien. Also re-renting costs after the tenant's breach, removal and storage after a summary ejectment, court costs, and G.S. 42-46 fees. Not normal wear and tear.
Notes: The landlord "may charge a reasonable, nonrefundable fee for pets kept by the tenant on the premises" (§ 42-53). The landlord must name the bank or bond insurer "within 30 days after the beginning of the lease term". The Article does not cover single rooms (§ 42-56).

Source: N.C. Gen. Stat. §§ 42-50 to 42-56 · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: North Carolina Landlord Tenant State Laws

North Dakota

Maximum deposit: One month's rent: no security "in excess of one month's rent". Up to two months' rent from a tenant convicted of a felony, or from a tenant with a prior judgment for violating a rental agreement. A separate pet deposit may not exceed the greater of $2,500 or two months' rent.
Return deadline: 30 days "after termination of the lease and delivery of possession by the lessee".
Interest on security deposits: Required, with no dollar threshold. The landlord must hold the deposit in "a federally insured interest-bearing savings or checking account for the benefit of the tenant" and pay the accrued interest to the tenant when the lease ends. No interest is due if occupancy lasted less than nine months.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Only unpaid rent; damage to the property caused by the tenant's pet or by the negligence of the tenant or a guest; and cleaning or repairs the tenant was responsible for, needed to return the unit to its move-in condition, "reasonable wear and tear excepted".
Notes: A landlord who withholds the deposit "without reasonable justification" is liable for treble damages. The pet deposit cannot be charged for a service animal, or for a companion animal that a tenant with a disability needs as a reasonable accommodation.

Source: N.D.C.C. § 47-16-07.1 · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: North Dakota Landlord Tenant State Laws

Ohio

Maximum deposit: No state statute sets a maximum.
Return deadline: 30 days. The landlord must deliver a written, itemized notice of any deductions with the amount due "within thirty days after termination of the rental agreement and delivery of possession."
Interest on security deposits: Required on the portion of the deposit above $50 or one month's rent, whichever is greater, at 5% a year, if the tenant stays 6 months or more. The landlord must compute and pay it annually.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Past-due rent, and damages the landlord has suffered "by reason of the tenant's noncompliance with section 5321.05 of the Revised Code or the rental agreement." Each deduction must be itemized in writing.
Notes: The tenant must give the landlord a forwarding address in writing. A tenant who does not loses the right to damages and attorney fees under § 5321.16(C).

Source: Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.16 · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: Ohio Landlord Tenant State Laws

Oklahoma

Maximum deposit: No state statute sets a maximum.
Return deadline: 45 days "after the termination of tenancy, delivery of possession and written demand by the tenant". A deposit not demanded in writing within 6 months of the tenancy ending "reverts to the landlord".
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest. The deposit must be kept "in an escrow account for the tenant" with a federally insured financial institution in Oklahoma, and the balance is returned "without interest".
What can be deducted from the deposit: Accrued rent and damages caused by the tenant's noncompliance with the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act and the rental agreement, plus "other legally allowable charges" under the act or the rental agreement. Deductions must be itemized in writing.
Notes: Unless the rental agreement provides otherwise, the tenant cannot use the deposit as the last month's rent. Misappropriating the escrowed deposit is a crime, punishable by up to 6 months in county jail and a fine of up to twice the amount misappropriated.

Source: 41 O.S. § 115 · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: Oklahoma Landlord Tenant State Laws

Oregon

Maximum deposit: No state statute sets a maximum. During the first year, a landlord "may not change the rental agreement to require the tenant to pay a new or increased security deposit", except by agreed modification, such as permitting a pet. After that, the tenant gets at least three months to pay.
Return deadline: 31 days. The landlord must give a written accounting and return the balance "not later than 31 days after the tenancy terminates and the tenant delivers possession to the landlord."
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Only "the amount reasonably necessary" to remedy the tenant's defaults under the rental agreement, including unpaid rent, and to repair damage caused by the tenant, "not including ordinary wear and tear". Carpet cleaning is chargeable only under the conditions in ORS 90.300(7)(c).
Notes: If the landlord withholds any part of the deposit without the written accounting, or in bad faith, the tenant may recover "twice the amount" withheld. No pet deposit may be charged for a service or companion animal required as a reasonable accommodation. Since 5 June 2026, unless the parties agree otherwise, when a natural disaster destroys the unit the tenancy ends and the deposit and prepaid rent must be returned under ORS 90.300.

Source: Or. Rev. Stat. § 90.300; 2026 Or. Laws ch. 108 § 21 · Verified 25 September 2026

Reference: Oregon Landlord Tenant State Laws

Pennsylvania

Maximum deposit: Two months' rent in the first year of a lease. One month's rent "During the second and subsequent years of the lease or during any renewal". After five years' possession, a rent increase "shall not require a concomitant increase in any security deposit." Residential rentals only.
Return deadline: 30 days: "within thirty days of termination of a lease or upon surrender and acceptance of the leasehold premises, whichever first occurs", with a written list of damages and payment of the balance.
Interest on security deposits: Required on deposits over $100 after the deposit's second anniversary, held at a federally or state-regulated institution. The landlord may keep 1% a year as administrative expenses. The rest is the tenant's, paid each year on the lease anniversary. A guarantee bond may replace escrow.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Actual damage to the premises caused by the tenant, with the burden of proof on the landlord. Also nonpayment of rent and "the breach of any other condition in the lease by the tenant."
Notes: A landlord who misses the 30-day list forfeits the right to withhold any of the deposit or sue for damage. A landlord who fails to pay the balance is liable for double the amount wrongfully withheld. These duties do not apply if the tenant does not give a new address in writing.

Source: Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951, §§ 511.1–512 (68 P.S. §§ 250.511a–250.512) · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: Pennsylvania Landlord Tenant State Laws

Rhode Island

Maximum deposit: One month's rent: no deposit "in excess of one month's periodic rent". For a furnished unit whose furniture has a replacement value of $5,000 or more, a separate furniture deposit of up to one month's rent is allowed.
Return deadline: 20 days "after the later of either termination of the tenancy, delivery of possession, or the tenant's providing the landlord with a forwarding address".
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Only unpaid accrued rent, "reasonable cleaning expenses", "reasonable trash disposal expenses", and physical damage to the premises "other than ordinary wear and tear" caused by the tenant breaching § 34-18-24. Deductions must be itemized in a written notice.
Notes: A landlord who fails to comply owes the amount due plus "twice the amount wrongfully withheld" and attorney's fees. A lease cannot waive these rules.

Source: R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18-19 · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: Rhode Island Landlord Tenant State Laws

South Carolina

Maximum deposit: No state statute sets a maximum. A landlord renting "more than four adjoining dwelling units" who uses different standards for calculating deposits must post or give each tenant a statement of those standards.
Return deadline: 30 days "after termination of the tenancy and delivery of possession and demand by the tenant, whichever is later". The tenant must give the landlord a forwarding address in writing.
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Accrued rent and damages the landlord suffered because the tenant breached the duties in § 27-40-510, which include not damaging the premises and the duty to "comply with the lease and rules and regulations". Deductions must be itemized in writing.
Notes: For wrongful withholding, the tenant may recover "three times the amount wrongfully withheld and reasonable attorney's fees". A tenant who gives no written forwarding address loses the right to damages, if the landlord had no notice of the tenant's whereabouts and mailed the notice to the last known address.

Source: S.C. Code § 27-40-410 · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: South Carolina Landlord Tenant State Laws

South Dakota

Maximum deposit: One month's rent. A larger deposit may be agreed "where special conditions pose a danger to maintenance of the premises".
Return deadline: 21 days "after the termination of the tenancy and receipt of the tenant's mailing address or delivery instructions", to return the deposit or give a written statement of the reasons for withholding. An itemized accounting is due within 45 days of termination if the tenant asks.
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Only amounts reasonably necessary to cover unpaid rent, "other funds due to the landlord pursuant to an agreement", and restoring the premises to their condition at the start of the tenancy, "ordinary wear and tear excepted".
Notes: A landlord who does not comply "forfeits all rights to withhold any portion of the deposit". Bad-faith retention can bring punitive damages of up to $200. The 21-day period took effect on 1 July 2026, replacing two weeks.

Source: S.D. Codified Laws § 43-32-6.1, § 43-32-24 · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: South Dakota Landlord Tenant Laws

Tennessee

Maximum deposit: No state statute sets a maximum.
Return deadline: No state statute sets a return deadline. If the tenant leaves owing no rent, the landlord must notify the tenant of any refund due. If the tenant does not respond "within sixty (60) days from the sending of such notification", the landlord may keep it.
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest. The deposit must be kept "in an account used only for that purpose" at a regulated bank or lending institution, and the tenant must be told where the account is.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Unpaid rent "or other amounts due and owing", "contractual damages", and physical damage listed through the move-out inspection procedure. Physical damage counts only if discovered within 30 days of move-out or 7 days after a new tenant takes possession, whichever is earlier.
Notes: The deposit rules apply only in counties with more than 75,000 people by the 2010 federal census. In those counties the state Act preempts additional local rules (§ 66-28-102(e)). A landlord is not "entitled to retain any portion of a security deposit if the security deposit was not deposited in an account as required by subsection (a) and a listing of damages is not provided as required by subsection (b)" (§ 66-28-301(c)).

Source: Tenn. Code Ann. §§ 66-28-102, 66-28-301 · Verified 25 September 2026

Reference: Tennessee Landlord Tenant State Laws

Texas

Maximum deposit: No state statute sets a maximum.
Return deadline: 30 days: "on or before the 30th day after the date the tenant surrenders the premises." The landlord need not refund, or send the list of deductions, until the tenant gives "a written statement of the tenant's forwarding address".
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest.
What can be deducted from the deposit: "damages and charges for which the tenant is legally liable under the lease or as a result of breaching the lease", but not "normal wear and tear". The landlord must give "a written description and itemized list of all deductions", unless the tenant owes rent on surrender and there is "no controversy concerning the amount of rent owed".
Notes: A lease term requiring advance notice of surrender "is effective only if the requirement is underlined or is printed in conspicuous bold print in the lease" (§ 92.103(b)). The tenant may not withhold the last month's rent against the deposit (§ 92.108). Deductions are governed by § 92.104.

Source: Tex. Prop. Code §§ 92.101–92.113 · Verified 24 September 2026

Reference: Texas Landlord Tenant State Laws

Utah

Maximum deposit: No state statute sets a maximum.
Return deadline: 30 days "after the day on which a renter vacates and returns possession" of the property. The landlord must send the deposit balance, any prepaid rent and a written itemized list of deductions to the tenant's last known address, or electronically by a means the tenant provided.
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Rent, "damages to the premises beyond reasonable wear and tear, other costs and fees provided for in the contract, or cleaning of the unit".
Notes: Any non-refundable part of the deposit "must be so stated in writing to the renter at the time the deposit is taken". If the landlord still does not comply within five business days of the tenant's notice, the tenant may recover "the full deposit", any prepaid rent and "a civil penalty of $100".

Source: Utah Code §§ 57-17-2, 57-17-3, 57-17-5 · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: Utah Landlord Tenant Laws

Vermont

Maximum deposit: No state statute sets a maximum.
Return deadline: 14 days from the date the tenant vacated (if the landlord had notice of that date) or the date the landlord discovers the tenant vacated or abandoned the unit. 60 days for a seasonal rental "not intended as a primary residence".
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest. A town may adopt an ordinance that "may authorize the payment of interest on a security deposit".
What can be deducted from the deposit: The statute lists nonpayment of rent; damage to the landlord's property, unless it is "normal wear and tear" or "the result of actions or events beyond the control of the tenant"; "nonpayment of utility or other charges that the tenant was required to pay directly to the landlord or to a utility"; and the cost of removing articles the tenant abandoned.
Notes: Towns and municipalities may adopt security deposit ordinances that supplement § 4461. A landlord who misses the deadline forfeits the right to withhold any of the deposit. A willful failure makes the landlord liable for "double the amount wrongfully withheld", plus attorney's fees and costs.

Source: 9 V.S.A. § 4461 · Verified 24 September 2026

Reference: Vermont Landlord Tenant State Laws

Virginia

Maximum deposit: Two months' rent. A landlord may not demand or receive a deposit "in excess of two months' periodic rent". A landlord may accept damage insurance instead of a deposit.
Return deadline: 45 days "after the termination date of the tenancy or the date the tenant vacates the dwelling unit, whichever occurs last."
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest. Interest on deposits was abolished from 1 January 2015 (2014 Va. Acts c. 651).
What can be deducted from the deposit: Accrued rent and reasonable late charges set in the rental agreement; damage from the tenant's noncompliance, "less reasonable wear and tear"; other charges provided in the rental agreement; and actual damages for breach, including rent until the term ends or a new tenancy begins. After written notice, a third-party utility balance.
Notes: The landlord must give an itemized written disposition within 45 days. If repairs need a third-party contractor and the landlord gives notice within the 45 days, the landlord has 15 more days to itemize. The landlord must tell the tenant in writing of the right to attend the move-out inspection. If the tenant asks in writing to attend, the inspection "must be made within 72 hours of delivery of possession".

Source: Va. Code § 55.1-1226; 2014 Va. Acts c. 651 · Verified 24 September 2026

Reference: Virginia Landlord Tenant State Laws

Washington

Maximum deposit: No state statute sets a maximum for residential tenancies. For manufactured/mobile home lot agreements from 7 May 2025, move-in fees and deposits combined "may not exceed one month's rent", or two months' rent with pets (RCW 59.20.170).
Return deadline: "Within 30 days after the termination of the rental agreement and vacation of the premises", or 30 days after the landlord learns of an abandonment. The landlord must give "a full and specific statement of the basis for retaining any of the deposit" with any refund.
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest to be paid to the tenant. The deposit goes in a trust account at a Washington financial institution or licensed escrow agent. "Unless otherwise agreed in writing", the landlord keeps the interest.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Only on the terms written into the rental agreement: rent or other charges owing, and damage beyond "wear resulting from ordinary use", documented with estimates or invoices. Carpet cleaning only if wear beyond ordinary use is documented.
Notes: "No deposit may be collected by a landlord unless the rental agreement is in writing and a written checklist or statement is provided". The landlord must give a written receipt naming the depository. The tenant may pay deposits and fees in installments (RCW 59.18.610) unless they total 25% or less of the first month's rent and last month's rent is not required.

Source: RCW 59.18.260 to 59.18.280, 59.18.610; 2025 c 209 s 204 (RCW 59.20.170) · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: Washington Landlord Tenant State Laws

West Virginia

Maximum deposit: No state statute sets a maximum.
Return deadline: Within 60 days of termination, or within 45 days of a new tenant occupying the unit, "whichever time period is shorter". The landlord has an extra 15 days to itemize where damage exceeds the deposit and needs a third-party contractor, if notice is given within that period.
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Only rent due (including agreed late charges), damages from the tenant's noncompliance "less reasonable wear and tear", and "other damages or charges as provided in the rental agreement". Also utilities billed to and paid by the landlord that the tenant owed, and reasonable costs of removing and storing the tenant's property.
Notes: A nonrefundable pet or application fee is not part of the deposit if the parties "expressly agree, in writing". For willful or bad-faith noncompliance, the tenant may recover the deposit plus damages "equal to one and a half times the amount wrongfully withheld". If the tenant owes rent, the court credits that award against the rent due.

Source: W. Va. Code § 37-6A-1, § 37-6A-2, § 37-6A-5 · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: West Virginia Landlord Tenant Law

Wisconsin

Maximum deposit: No state statute sets a maximum.
Return deadline: 21 days. The landlord must return the deposit "within 21 days after" the rental agreement ends, or after a new tenant's tenancy begins if the unit is rerented sooner. If the tenant leaves after the end date, the clock starts when the landlord learns the tenant has vacated.
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest.
What can be deducted from the deposit: Only amounts "reasonably necessary" for tenant "damage, waste, or neglect" (not "normal wear and tear"), unpaid rent, landlord-provided utilities not included in rent, government-utility charges the landlord becomes liable for, and unpaid municipal permit fees. Anything else only if it is in a separate written document entitled "NONSTANDARD RENTAL PROVISIONS" that the landlord specifically identified with the tenant before the tenant entered the rental agreement.
Notes: Local governments may not add security-deposit requirements beyond the state's administrative rules (Wis. Stat. § 66.0104(2)(b)). Any withholding needs a written statement "accounting for all amounts withheld" within the 21 days (ATCP 134.06(4)). Before accepting a deposit, the landlord must tell the tenant in writing that the tenant may inspect the unit and request the list of damages charged to the previous tenant's deposit (ATCP 134.06(1)).

Source: Wis. Stat. § 704.28 · Wis. Admin. Code ATCP § 134.06 · Wis. Stat. § 66.0104(2) · Verified 25 September 2026

Reference: Wisconsin Landlord Tenant State Laws

Wyoming

Maximum deposit: No state statute sets a maximum.
Return deadline: 30 days after the rental agreement ends, or 15 days "after receipt of the renter's new mailing address, whichever is later". The period is extended by 30 days if there is damage to the unit.
Interest on security deposits: No state statute requires interest. The balance is returned "without interest".
What can be deducted from the deposit: Accrued rent, "damages to the residential rental unit beyond reasonable wear and tear", the cost of cleaning the unit to its condition at the start of the rental agreement, and "other costs provided by any contract". A separately identified utilities deposit may be applied to unpaid utility charges.
Notes: The rental agreement must state whether any part of the deposit is nonrefundable, and the tenant must get written notice of this "at the time the deposit is taken". A landlord who "unreasonably fails to comply" may have to repay "the full deposit and court costs".

Source: Wyo. Stat. §§ 1-21-1207, 1-21-1208 · Verified 23 September 2026

Reference: Wyoming Landlord Tenant State Laws

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Security Deposit Laws FAQs

How Much is a Security Deposit Usually?

‍The amount of a security deposit typically varies by state and local regulations, but it is generally equivalent to one to two months’ rent.

Does Section 8 Pay Security Deposit?

‍Section 8 does not cover security deposits. Tenants are responsible for paying the security deposit, although some local assistance programs may offer help.

When is Security Deposit Due?

‍A security deposit is usually due at the time the lease agreement is signed, before the tenant moves in.

Does Security Deposit Increase with Rent Increase?

‍Whether a security deposit increases with rent depends on state and local laws as well as the terms of the lease agreement. In some areas, landlords may be allowed to increase the security deposit proportionately with rent increases.

Can Landlord Sue for Damages Beyond Security Deposit?

‍Yes, if the cost of damages exceeds the amount of the security deposit, landlords can sue the tenant for the additional amount needed to cover the damages.

Disclaimer

We hope you found this blog interesting! However, do note that the information in this article does not constitute advice. This blog is for general informational and educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for competent legal and/or other advice from a licensed professional.