Pick your state to see the maximum legal security deposit, the deadline to return it after move-out, allowed deductions, and the statute citation — instantly, free, no signup.
Maximum deposit
Return deadline
Allowed deductions
Interest on the deposit
Laws change — verify the current statute. This shows the statewide rule; local ordinances (e.g. Chicago, NYC, Seattle) can be stricter. Not legal advice.
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How this calculator works
Security deposit law is set state by state. Roughly 30 states + DC cap the maximum deposit at 1–3 months' rent, while about 20 states impose no statutory cap. Return deadlines after move-out range from 10 days (Montana, no deductions) to 60 days (Alabama, Arkansas, West Virginia), and a dozen-plus states require interest on held deposits. This tool reflects the statewide statute for each state — the same statutes cited in our 50-state security deposit comparison table. Landlords use it to check what they can charge and when they must return the deposit; tenants use it to check whether a deposit is legal and when it's due back.
FAQ
How much security deposit can a landlord legally charge?
It depends on the state. About 30 states + DC cap residential deposits at 1–3 months' rent (California: 1 month for most landlords; Arizona: 1.5 months; Nevada: 3 months). Roughly 20 states — including Texas, Florida, and Tennessee — impose no statutory cap, though local ordinances may. Select your state above for the exact cap and statute citation.
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit?
Deadlines range from 10 days (Montana, when no deductions are made) to 60 days (Alabama, Arkansas, West Virginia). The most common deadline is 30 days. Many states shorten the window when no deductions are taken and require an itemized statement when they are.
What can a landlord deduct from a security deposit?
Every state permits deductions for (a) unpaid rent, (b) physical damage beyond normal wear and tear, and (c) cleaning to restore the unit to move-in condition. Most states require an itemized written statement, and many impose double or treble damages when a landlord wrongfully withholds a deposit or misses the deadline.
What happens if my landlord kept more than the legal limit?
Statutory caps are mandatory and cannot be waived by a lease clause. A landlord who collects more than the legal maximum may be required to refund the excess, and many states impose 2x–3x damages plus attorney's fees on top of the refund.
Is this calculator legal advice?
No. It provides general information about state landlord-tenant statutes and is not legal advice. Laws change and local ordinances can impose stricter rules. Always verify the current statute or consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.
Disclaimer: This tool provides general information about state landlord-tenant law and is not legal advice. Laws change — verify the current statute before acting. Local ordinances may impose stricter rules than the statewide figures shown here. For complex situations, consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction. Last reviewed: July 2026.