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Return the deposit — on time, itemized, documented.

An itemized deposit disposition statement with your state’s deadline, refund math, and required language handled for you. Free PDF, no account needed.

Security deposit return letter

Itemize any deductions and we’ll generate the disposition statement your state expects — with the legal deadline and refund math handled for you.

Property & parties

Dates & deposit

Deductions

Unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear, or other charges the lease allows. Leave empty for a full refund. Normal wear and tear can’t be deducted in any state.

Finish

Not legal advice. Some states require interest payments, escrow accounts, receipts for deductions, or specific delivery methods — check the law panel and your lease before sending.

Deposit return questions, answered.

How long do I have to return a security deposit?

It varies from 14 to 60 days depending on the state, sometimes tied to when the tenant provides a forwarding address. Pick your state in the tool and it shows the exact deadline for your move-out date — and warns you if your statement is dated after it.

What can I deduct from the deposit?

Unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear, and other charges the lease allows. No state permits deducting normal wear and tear — faded paint, worn carpet in traffic areas, small nail holes. Several states require receipts or estimates for repairs; keep them.

What happens if I miss the deadline?

Penalties are serious in many states — forfeiting the right to withhold anything, or owing the tenant double or triple the deposit. If you can't finalize repair costs in time, many states let you send a good-faith estimate first; note it in the letter.

Do I owe the tenant interest?

Some states and cities require interest on held deposits (Connecticut, Massachusetts, Minnesota, DC, Chicago, and others). The tool has an interest field and the state panel notes when it applies.

Is this legal advice?

No — it's a carefully drafted statement that applies published state rules (each state entry lists its statutes and review date). Check local ordinances or ask a local attorney for edge cases like abandoned property or disputed damage.

Free Security Deposit Return Letter — Itemized, State-Deadline Aware | TenantPilot