Security Deposit Limits

Security Deposit Limits, by State

Alabama

One month’s rent, except for pet deposits, deposits to cover undoing tenant’s alterations, deposits to cover tenant activities that pose increased liability risks

Alaska

Two months’ rent, unless rent exceeds $2,000 per month. Landlord may ask for an additional month’s rent as deposit for a pet that is not a service animal, but may use it only to remedy pet damage.

Arizona

One and one-half months’ rent

More Information on Limits in this State

“Arizona Security Deposit Law (Limits and Deadlines) information:
A breakdown of Arizona landlord-tenant laws on security deposits.

Most residential leases and rental agreements in Arizona require a security deposit. This is a dollar amount, usually one month’s rent, that’s intended to cover damage to the premises beyond normal wear and tear and to cushion the financial blow if the tenant skips out early on the lease without paying. Here’s a summary of landlord-tenant laws covering security deposits in Arizona.
Does Arizona law limit how much a landlord can charge a tenant for a security deposit?
Yes. Under Arizona landlord-tenant laws, a landlord may charge a tenant the equivalent of one and one-half months’ rent for the security deposit.

To learn more about steps that tenants can take to protect their security deposit after they’ve paid it, check out American Encyclopedia of Law’s article Protect Your Security Deposit When You Move In.

What about when a tenant moves out? What is the deadline in Arizona for returning a security deposit?
Under Arizona law, a landlord must return the tenant’s security deposit, with an itemized statement of deductions, within 14 days after the tenant has moved out. The tenant has the right to be present at the final inspection.

Learn more about tenants’ rights and landlords’ obligations when it comes to the return of the security deposit in American Encyclopedia of Law’s chart Cleaning and Repairs a Landlord Can Deduct from a Security Deposit and American Encyclopedia of Law’s article Get Your Security Deposit Back.

Is there additional information that Arizona landlords must provide to tenants when it comes to security deposits in Arizona?
Yes. In addition to complying with Arizona laws on security deposit limits and how (and when) the deposit must be returned to tenants, landlords in Arizona must state in writing the purpose of any nonrefundable fee collected from the tenant. All fees not designated as nonrefundable are deemed refundable under Arizona landlord-tenant law.

Are there any exemptions from Arizona security deposit rules?
Yes. State law does not cover employees of the landlord, such as a manager, whose right to occupancy is conditioned upon employment in and about the premises.

Where can I look up Arizona law on security deposits?
If you want to go right to the source and look up Arizona law on security deposits — or if you’re writing a letter to your landlord or tenant and want to cite the applicable law — the relevant statute(s) can be found at Arizona Revised Statutes (Annotated) § 33-1321. To access your state law, check out the Library of Congress’s legal research site.

Arkansas

Two months’ rent

California

Two months’ rent (unfurnished); three months’ rent (furnished). Add extra one-half month’s rent for waterbed

More Information on Limits in this State

“California Security Deposit Law (Limits and Deadlines) information:
A breakdown of California landlord-tenant laws on security deposits.

Most residential leases and rental agreements in California require a security deposit. This is a dollar amount, usually one month’s rent, that’s intended to cover damage to the premises beyond normal wear and tear, and to cushion the financial blow if a tenant skips out early on the lease without paying. Here’s a summary of California landlord-tenant laws that cover the use and return of security deposits.
Does California law limit how much a landlord can charge a tenant for a security deposit?
Yes. Under California landlord-tenant laws, a landlord may charge a renter the equivalent of two months’ rent for the security deposit if the residence is unfurnished, and three months’ rent if the residence is furnished. California landlords can also add an extra one-half month’s rent if the tenant has a waterbed. Landlords may not charge nonrefundable fees in California.

To learn more about steps that renters can take to protect their security deposit after they’ve paid it, check out American Encyclopedia of Law’s article Protect Your Security Deposit When You Move In.

What about when a renter moves out? What is the deadline in California for returning a security deposit?
Under California law, a landlord must return the renter’s security deposit, with an itemized statement of deductions, within 21 days after the renter has surrendered the rental property to the landlord (that is, returned the keys and vacated the property).

Learn more about renters’ rights and landlords’ obligations when it comes to the return of the security deposit in American Encyclopedia of Law’s chart Cleaning and Repairs a Landlord Can Deduct from a Security Deposit and American Encyclopedia of Law’s article Get Your Security Deposit Back.

Is there additional information that California landlords must provide to renters when it comes to security deposits in California?
Yes. In addition to complying with California laws on security deposit limits and how (and when) the deposit must be returned to tenants, landlords in California must provide renters with advance notice before taking any deductions out of the security deposit, such as for the cost of repairs for damage to the property.

Where can I look up California law on security deposits?
If you want to go right to the source and look up the California laws on security deposits — or if you’re writing a letter to your landlord or tenant and want to cite the applicable law — the relevant statute(s) can be found at California Civil Code § § 1950.5 and 1940.5(g). To access your state law, check out the Library of Congress’s legal research site.

For detailed advice on the collection, use, and return of security deposits, see California Tenants’ Rights (American Encyclopedia of Law).

Colorado

No statutory limit

More Information on Limits in this State

“Colorado Security Deposit Law (Limits and Deadlines) information:
A breakdown of Colorado landlord-tenant laws on security deposits.

Most residential leases and rental agreements in Colorado require a security deposit. This is a dollar amount, usually one month’s rent, that’s intended to cover damage to the premises beyond normal wear and tear, and to cushion the financial blow if a tenant skips out early on the lease without paying. Here’s a summary of Colorado landlord-tenant laws that cover the use and return of security deposits.
Does Colorado law limit how much a landlord can charge a tenant for a security deposit?
No. In Colorado, there’s no statutory limit on security deposits at the state level, but check your city and county laws to see if your municipality has set a cap on security deposits for residential rentals.

What about when a tenant moves out? What is the deadline in Colorado for returning a security deposit?
Under Colorado law, a landlord must return the tenant’s security deposit within one month, unless the lease agreement specifies a longer period of time (which may be no more than 60 days). The landlord must return the deposit within 72 hours (not counting weekends or holidays) if a hazardous condition involving gas equipment required the tenant to leave.

Is there additional information that Colorado landlords must provide to tenants when it comes to security deposits in Colorado?
Not at the state level in Colorado. But be sure to check your local (county, city, or town) laws to see if your municipality requires landlords to take additional steps when it comes to tenants’ security deposits.

Where can I look up Colorado law on security deposits?
If you want to go right to the source and look up Colorado law on security deposits — or if you’re writing a letter to your landlord or tenant and want to cite the applicable law — the relevant statute(s) can be found at Colorado Revised Statutes § § 38-12-102 to 38-12-104. To access your state law, check out the Library of Congress’s legal research site.

Connecticut

Two months’ rent (tenant under 62 years of age); one month’s rent (tenant 62 years of age or older). Tenants who paid a deposit in excess of one month’s rent, who then turn 62 years old, are entitled, upon request, to a refund of the amount that exceeds one month’s rent.

More Information on Limits in this State

“Connecticut Security Deposit Law (Limits and Deadlines) information:
A breakdown of Connecticut landlord-tenant laws on security deposits.

Most residential leases and rental agreements in Connecticut require a security deposit. This is a dollar amount, usually one month’s rent, that’s intended to cover damage to the premises beyond normal wear and tear, and to cushion the financial blow if a tenant skips out early on the lease without paying. Here’s a summary of Connecticut landlord-tenant laws that cover the use and return of security deposits.
Does Connecticut law limit how much a landlord can charge a tenant for a security deposit?
Yes. Under Connecticut landlord-tenant laws, a landlord may charge a tenant the equivalent of two months’ rent for the security deposit if the tenant is under 62 years of age and one month’s rent if the tenant is 62 or older.

What about when a tenant moves out? What is the deadline in Connecticut for returning a security deposit?
Under Connecticut law, a landlord must return the tenant’s security deposit within 30 days after the tenant has surrendered the rental property to the landlord (that is, returned the keys and vacated the property) or within 15 days of receiving the tenant’s forwarding address, whichever is later.

To get as much of your money returned as possible, understand what cleaning and repairs a landlord can deduct from a security deposit and what you need to do to get your security deposit back.

Is there additional information that Connecticut landlords must provide to tenants when it comes to security deposits in Connecticut?
Yes. Landlords in Connecticut must add interest payments to the security deposit annually (or credited towards rent, at the landlord’s option) and no later than 30 days after termination of the tenancy. The interest rate must be equal to the average rate paid on savings deposits by insured commercial banks, as published by the Federal Reserve Board Bulletin, rounded to the nearest 0.1%.

Where can I look up Connecticut law on security deposits?
If you want to go right to the source and look up Connecticut law on security deposits — or if you’re writing a letter to your landlord or tenant and want to cite the applicable law — the relevant statute(s) can be found at Connecticut General Statutes Annotated § 47a-21. Your city or county might have different landlord-tenant and security deposit laws than those at the state level in Connecticut, so check with your city manager or mayor’s office.

For other information on tenant rights in Connecticut, see the state’s guide to landlord-tenant law, published by the Connecticutt Superior Court.”

Delaware

One month’s rent on leases for one year or more. For month to month tenancies, no limit for the first year, but after that, the limit is one month’s rent (at the expiration of one year, landlord must give tenant a credit for any deposit held by the landlord that is in excess of one month’s rent). No limit for furnished units. Tenant may offer to supply a surety bond in lieu of or in conjunction with a deposit, which landlord may elect to receive.

District of Columbia

One month’s rent

More Information on Limits in this State

“D.C. Security Deposit Law (Limits and Deadlines) information: (District of Columbia)
A breakdown of District of Columbia landlord-tenant laws on security deposits.

Most residential leases and rental agreements in the District of Columbia require a security deposit. This is a dollar amount, usually one month’s rent, that’s intended to cover damage to the premises beyond normal wear and tear, and to cushion the financial blow if a tenant skips out early on the lease without paying. Here’s a summary of the District of Columbia landlord-tenant laws that cover the use and return of security deposits.
Does D.C. law limit how much a landlord can charge a tenant for a security deposit?
Yes. D.C. landlords may charge tenants (except for those renting rent-stabilized units) the equivalent of one month’s rent for the security deposit.

To learn more about steps tenants can take to protect their security deposit after they’ve paid it, check out American Encyclopedia of Law’s article Protect Your Security Deposit When You Move In.

What about when a tenant moves out? What is the deadline in D.C. for returning a security deposit?
Under D.C. law, a landlord must return the tenant’s security deposit, along with an itemized statement of deductions, within 45 days after the tenant has surrendered the rental property to the landlord (that is, returned the keys and vacated the property).

Learn more about tenants’ rights and landlords’ obligations when it comes to the return of the security deposit in American Encyclopedia of Law’s Cleaning and Repairs a Landlord Can Deduct from a Security Deposit chart and Get Your Security Deposit Back article.

Is there additional information that landlords must provide to tenants when it comes to security deposits in D.C.?
Yes. Landlords in the District must state, in the lease or rental agreement or on a receipt, the terms and conditions under which the security deposit was collected. Also in D.C., interest payments on the security deposit (at the prevailing statement savings rate) must be made to the tenant at the end of the tenancy.

Where can I look up D.C. law on security deposits?
If you want to go right to the source and look up D.C. law on security deposits — or if you’re writing a letter to a landlord or tenant and want to cite the applicable law — the relevant statute(s) can be found at D.C. Code Annotated § 42-3502.17. To access these statutes, check out the Library of Congress’s legal research site. Also see D.C. Municipal Regulations Title 14 § § 308 to 310).”

Florida

No statutory limit

More Information on Limits in this State

“Florida Security Deposit Law (Limits and Deadlines) information:
A breakdown of Florida landlord-tenant laws on security deposits.

Most residential leases and rental agreements in Florida require a security deposit. This is a dollar amount, usually one month’s rent, that’s intended to cover damage to the premises beyond normal wear and tear, and to cushion the financial blow if a tenant skips out early on the lease without paying. Here’s a summary of Florida landlord-tenant laws that cover the use and return of security deposits.
Does Florida law limit how much a landlord can charge a tenant for a security deposit?
No. In Florida, there’s no statutory limit on security deposits at the state level, but check your city and county laws to see if your municipality has set a cap on security deposits for residential rentals.

What about when a tenant moves out? What is the deadline in Florida for returning a security deposit?
Under Florida law, a landlord must return the tenant’s security deposit within 15 to 60 days after the tenant has surrendered the rental property to the landlord (that is, returned the keys and vacated the property), depending on whether the tenant disputes any deductions taken out of the security deposit. Florida landlords must provide tenants advance notice of any deductions from the deposit.

Is there additional information that Florida landlords must provide to tenants when it comes to security deposits in Florida?
Yes. Landlords in Florida must, within 30 days of receiving a security deposit, disclose in writing

whether the funds will be held in an interest- or non-interest bearing account
the name of the account depository, and
the rate and time of interest payments.
Landlords who collect a deposit must include a copy of Florida Statutes § 83.49(3) in the lease.

Interest payments, if any (account need not be interest-bearing) must be made annually and at termination of tenancy. However, no interest is due a tenant who wrongfully terminates the tenancy before the end of the rental term.

Landlords in Florida must provide renters with advance notice before taking any deduction out of the security deposit.

Where can I look up Florida law on security deposits?
If you want to go right to the source and look up Florida law on security deposits — or if you’re writing a letter to your landlord or tenant and want to cite the applicable law — the relevant statute(s) can be found at Florida Statutes Annotated § § 83.49 and 83.43 (12). To access your state law, check out the Library of Congress’s legal research site.

Georgia

No statutory limit

More Information on Limits in this State

“Georgia Security Deposit Law (Limits and Deadlines) information:
A breakdown of Georgia landlord-tenant laws on security deposits.

Most residential leases and rental agreements in Georgia require a security deposit. This is a dollar amount, usually one month’s rent, that’s intended to cover damage to the premises beyond normal wear and tear, and to cushion the financial blow if a tenant skips out early on the lease without paying. Here’s a summary of Georgia landlord-tenant laws that cover the use and return of security deposits.
Does Georgia law limit how much a landlord can charge a tenant for a security deposit?
No. In Georgia, there’s no statutory limit on security deposits at the state level, but check your city and county laws to see if your municipality has set a cap on security deposits for residential rentals.

What about when a tenant moves out? What is the deadline in Georgia for returning a security deposit?
Under Georgia law, a landlord must return the tenant’s security deposit within one month after the tenant has surrendered the rental property to the landlord (that is, returned the keys and vacated the property).

Is there additional information that Georgia landlords must provide to tenants when it comes to security deposits in Georgia?
Yes. Landlords must place the deposit in an escrow account in a state or federally regulated depository, and must inform the tenant of the location of this account. Alternatively, landlords may post a security bond securing all tenants’ deposits. A landlord who owns ten or fewer rental units, unless those units are managed by an outside party, does not need to supply a written list of preexisting damage place the deposit in an escrow account.

In addition, landlords in Georgia must give the tenant a written list of preexisting damage to the rental before collecting a security deposit. Landlords in Georgia must also provide tenants with advance notice before taking any deductions out of the security deposit, such as for the cost of repairing damage to the property caused by the tenant. A landlord who owns ten or fewer rental units, unless those units are managed by an outside party, does not need to supply a written list of preexisting damage.

Where can I look up Georgia law on security deposits?
If you want to go right to the source and look up Georgia law on security deposits — or if you’re writing a letter to your landlord or tenant and want to cite the applicable law — the relevant statute(s) can be found at Georgia Code Annotated § § 44-7-30 to 44-7-37. To access your state law, check out the Library of Congress’s legal research site.

Hawaii

One month’s rent; Landlord may require an additional one month’s rent as security deposit for tenants who keep a pet

Idaho

No statutory limit

Illinois

No statutory limit

More Information on Limits in this State

“Illinois Security Deposit Law (Limits and Deadlines) information:
A breakdown of Illinois landlord-tenant laws on security deposits.

Most residential leases and rental agreements in Illinois require a security deposit. This is a dollar amount, usually one month’s rent, that’s intended to cover damage to the premises beyond normal wear and tear, and to cushion the financial blow if a tenant skips out early on the lease without paying. Here’s a summary of Illinois landlord-tenant laws that cover the use and return of security deposits.
Does Illinois law limit how much a landlord can charge a tenant for a security deposit?
No. In Illinois, there’s no statutory limit on security deposits at the state level, but check your city and county laws to see if your municipality has set a cap on security deposits for residential rentals.

What about when a tenant moves out? What is the deadline in Illinois for returning a security deposit?
Under Illinois law, for properties with five or more units, a landlord must return the tenant’s security deposit within 30 to 45 days after the tenant moves out — depending on whether the tenant disputes deductions taken out of the security deposit or if an itemized statement and receipts are provided by the landlord.

Is there additional information that Illinois landlords must provide to tenants when it comes to security deposits in Illinois?
Yes. In addition to complying with Illinois laws on security deposit limits and how (and when) the deposit must be returned to tenants, landlords in Illinois must pay interest on security deposits held for more than six months if they rent 25 or more units in either a single building or a complex located on contiguous properties.

Where can I look up Illinois law on security deposits?
If you want to go right to the source and look up Illinois law on security deposits — or if you’re writing a letter to your landlord or tenant and want to cite the applicable law — the relevant statute(s) can be found at Illinois Compiled Statutes § § 710/1, 715/1, and 715/3. To access your state law, check out the Library of Congress’s legal research site.

Indiana

No statutory limit

More Information on Limits in this State

“Indiana Security Deposit Law (Limits and Deadlines) information:
A breakdown of Indiana landlord-tenant laws on security deposits.

Most residential leases and rental agreements in Indiana require a security deposit. This is a dollar amount, usually one month’s rent, that’s intended to cover damage to the premises beyond normal wear and tear, and to cushion the financial blow if a tenant skips out early on the lease without paying. Here’s a summary of Indiana landlord-tenant laws that cover the use and return of security deposits.
Does Indiana law limit how much a landlord can charge a tenant for a security deposit?
No. In Indiana, there’s no statutory limit on security deposits at the state level, but check your city and county laws to see if your municipality has set a cap on security deposits for residential rentals.

What about when a tenant moves out? What is the deadline in Indiana for returning a security deposit?
Under Indiana law, a landlord must return the tenant’s security deposit within 45 days after the tenant has surrendered the rental property to the landlord (that is, returned the keys and vacated the property).

Is there additional information that Indiana landlords must provide to tenants when it comes to security deposits in Indiana?
Not at the state level in Indiana. But be sure to check your local (county, city, or town) laws to see if your municipality requires landlords to take additional steps when it comes to tenants’ security deposits.

Where can I look up Indiana law on security deposits?
If you want to go right to the source and look up Indiana law on security deposits — or if you’re writing a letter to your landlord or tenant and want to cite the applicable law — the relevant statute(s) can be found at Indiana Code Annotated § § 32-31-3-9 to 32-31-3-19. To access your state law, check out the Library of Congress’s legal research site.

Iowa

Two months’ rent

More Information on Limits in this State

“Iowa Security Deposit Law (Limits and Deadlines) information:
A breakdown of Iowa landlord-tenant laws on security deposits.

Most residential leases and rental agreements in Iowa require a security deposit. This is a dollar amount, usually one month’s rent, that’s intended to cover damage to the premises beyond normal wear and tear, and to cushion the financial blow if a tenant skips out early on the lease without paying. Here’s a summary of Iowa landlord-tenant laws that cover the use and return of security deposits.
Does Iowa law limit how much a landlord can charge a tenant for a security deposit?
Yes. Under Iowa landlord-tenant laws, a landlord may charge a tenant the equivalent of two months’ rent for the security deposit.

What about when a tenant moves out? What is the deadline in Iowa for returning a security deposit?
Under Iowa law, a landlord must return the tenant’s security deposit within 30 days after the tenant has surrendered the rental property to the landlord (that is, returned the keys and vacated the property).

Is there additional information that Iowa landlords must provide to tenants when it comes to security deposits in Iowa?
Yes. In addition to complying with Iowa laws on security deposit limits and how (and when) the deposit must be returned to tenants, landlords in Iowa must — if the security deposit is kept in an interest-bearing account — pay interest to the tenant if the tenancy lasted more than five years (the landlord keeps the interest earned during the first five years of the tenancy).

Where can I look up Iowa law on security deposits?
If you want to go right to the source and look up Iowa law on security deposits — or if you’re writing a letter to your landlord or tenant and want to cite the applicable law — the relevant statute(s) can be found at Iowa Code Annotated § 562A.12. To access your state law, check out the Library of Congress’s legal research site.

Kansas

One month’s rent (unfurnished); one and one-half month’s rent (furnished); for pets, add extra one-half month’s rent

Kentucky

No statutory limit

Louisiana

No statutory limit

Maine

Two months’ rent

Maryland

Two months’ rent

More Information on Limits in this State

“Maryland Security Deposit Law (Limits and Deadlines) information:
A breakdown of Maryland landlord-tenant laws on security deposits.

Most residential leases and rental agreements in Maryland require a security deposit. This is a dollar amount, usually one month’s rent, that’s intended to cover damage to the premises beyond normal wear and tear, and to cushion the financial blow if a tenant skips out early on the lease without paying. Here’s a summary of Maryland landlord-tenant laws that cover the use and return of security deposits.
Does Maryland law limit how much a landlord can charge a tenant for a security deposit?
Yes. Under Maryland landlord-tenant laws, a landlord may charge a tenant the equivalent of two months’ rent for the security deposit.

What about when a tenant moves out? What is the deadline in Maryland for returning a security deposit?
Under Maryland law, a landlord must return the tenant’s security deposit within 45 days after the tenant has moved out.

Is there additional information that Maryland landlords must provide to tenants when it comes to security deposits in Maryland?
Yes. Landlords in Maryland must provide a receipt that describes the tenant’s rights to move-in and move-out inspections (and to be present at each), the tenant’s right to receive itemization of the deposit deductions and balance (if any), and penalties for the landlord’s failure to comply. Landlords in Maryland must also pay interest on security deposits of $50 or more, when the landlord has held the deposit for at least six months. Landlord may hold all tenants’ deposits in secured certificates of deposit, or in securities issued by the federal government or the State of Maryland.

Where can I look up Maryland law on security deposits?
If you want to go right to the source and look up Maryland law on security deposits — or if you’re writing a letter to your landlord or tenant and want to cite the applicable law — the relevant statute(s) can be found at Maryland Code Annotated (Real Property) § § 8-203, 8-203.1, and 8-203.8. To access your state law, check out the Library of Congress’s legal research site.

Massachusetts

One month’s rent

More Information on Limits in this State

“Massachusetts Security Deposit Law (Limits and Deadlines) information:
A breakdown of Massachusetts landlord-tenant laws on security deposits.

Most residential leases and rental agreements in Massachusetts require a security deposit. This is a dollar amount, usually one month’s rent, that’s intended to cover damage to the premises beyond normal wear and tear, and to cushion the financial blow if a tenant skips out early on the lease without paying. Here’s a summary of Massachusetts landlord-tenant laws that cover the use and return of security deposits.
Does Massachusetts law limit how much a landlord can charge a tenant for a security deposit?
Yes. Massachusetts landlord-tenant law allows landlords to charge tenants the equivalent of one month’s rent for the security deposit.

What about when a tenant moves out? What is the deadline in Massachusetts for returning a security deposit?
Under Massachusetts law, a landlord must return the tenant’s security deposit within 30 days after the tenant has surrendered the rental property to the landlord (that is, returned the keys and vacated the property).

Is there additional information that Massachusetts landlords must provide to tenants when it comes to security deposits in Massachusetts?
Yes. Landlords in Massachusetts must, at the time of receiving the security deposit, provide the tenant with a receipt indicating the amount of the deposit; the name of the person receiving it, and, if received by a property manager, the name of the lessor for whom the security deposit is received; the date on which the deposit is received; and a description of the premises leased or rented.

Within 30 days of receiving the security deposit, the landlord must disclose the name and location of the bank in which the deposit has been deposited, and the amount and account number of the deposit.

Landlords in Massachusetts must also pay tenants 5% interest on the security deposit per year, or the amount of interest paid by the bank (the bank must be in Massachusetts). Interest should be paid yearly, and within 30 days of the termination date. Interest will not accrue for the last month for which rent was paid.

Where can I look up Massachusetts law on security deposits?
If you want to go right to the source and look up Massachusetts law on security deposits — or if you’re writing a letter to your landlord or tenant and want to cite the applicable law — the relevant statute(s) can be found at Massachusetts General Laws Annotated Chapter 186 § section 15B. To access your state law, check out the Library of Congress’s legal research site.

Michigan

One and one-half months’ rent

More Information on Limits in this State

“Michigan Security Deposit Law (Limits and Deadlines) information:
A breakdown of Michigan landlord-tenant laws on security deposits.

Most residential leases and rental agreements in Michigan require a security deposit. This is a dollar amount, usually one month’s rent, that’s intended to cover damage to the premises beyond normal wear and tear, and to cushion the financial blow if a tenant skips out early on the lease without paying. Here’s a summary of Michigan landlord-tenant laws that cover the use and return of security deposits.
Does Michigan law limit how much a landlord can charge a tenant for a security deposit?
Yes. Under Michigan landlord-tenant laws, a landlord may charge a tenant the equivalent of one and one-half months’ rent for the security deposit.

What about when a tenant moves out? What is the deadline in Michigan for returning a security deposit?
Under Michigan law, a landlord must return the tenant’s security deposit, with an itemized statement of deductions, within 30 days after the tenant has moved out.

Tenants in Michigan must dispute the landlord’s stated deductions within seven days of receiving the itemized list and balance, if any, or give up any right to dispute them.

Is there additional information that Michigan landlords must provide to tenants when it comes to security deposits in Michigan?
Yes. Landlords in Michigan must, within 14 days of the tenant’s taking possession of the rental, furnish in writing the landlord’s name and address for receiving communications and the name and address of the financial institution or surety where the deposit will be held. Landlords in Michigan must also provide tenants with advance notice before taking any deductions out of the security deposit, such as for the cost of repairing damage to the property caused by the tenant. Michigan landlords must also alert tenants to their obligation to private in writing a forwarding mailing address to the landlord within four days after termination of occupancy.

Does Michigan law require landlords to put deposits in a separate account?
Yes. Landlord must place deposits in a regulated financial institution, and may use the deposits as long as the landlord deposits with the secretary of state a cash or surety bond.

Where can I look up Michigan law on security deposits?
If you want to go right to the source and look up Michigan law on security deposits — or if you’re writing a letter to your landlord or tenant and want to cite the applicable law — the relevant statute(s) can be found at Michigan Compiled Laws § § 554.602 to 554.616. To access your state law, check out the Library of Congress’s legal research site.

Minnesota

No statutory limit

More Information on Limits in this State

“Minnesota Security Deposit Law (Limits and Deadlines) information:
A breakdown of Minnesota landlord-tenant laws on security deposits.

Most residential leases and rental agreements in Minnesota require a security deposit. This is a dollar amount, usually one month’s rent, that’s intended to cover damage to the premises beyond normal wear and tear, and to cushion the financial blow if a tenant skips out early on the lease without paying. Here’s a summary of Minnesota landlord-tenant laws that cover the use and return of security deposits.
Does Minnesota law limit how much a landlord can charge a tenant for a security deposit?
No. In Minnesota, there’s no statutory limit on security deposits at the state level, but if the landlord collects a “”prelease deposit”” and subsequently rents to the tenant, the landlord must apply the prelease deposit to the security deposit. Be sure to check your city and county laws to see if your municipality has set a cap on security deposits for residential rentals.

What about when a tenant moves out? What is the deadline in Minnesota for returning a security deposit?
Under Minnesota law, a landlord must return the tenant’s security deposit within three weeks after the tenant has surrendered the rental property to the landlord (that is, returned the keys and vacated the property) and the landlord has received the tenant’s forwarding address; but within five days if the tenant must leave due to building condemnation.

Is there additional information that Minnesota landlords must provide to tenants when it comes to security deposits in Minnesota?
Yes. Landlords in Minnesota must, before collecting rent or a security deposit, provide a copy of all outstanding inspection orders for which a citation has been issued, pertaining to a rental unit or common area, specifying code violations that threaten the health or safety of the tenant.With some exceptions, a Minnesota landlord who has received notice of a contract for deed cancellation or notice of a mortgage foreclosure sale must disclose this to a tenant before aceepting a security deposit.

Landlords in Minnesota must also pay 1% simple noncompounded interest on the security deposit per year.

Where can I look up Minnesota law on security deposits?
If you want to go right to the source and look up Minnesota law on security deposits — or if you’re writing a letter to your landlord or tenant and want to cite the applicable law — the relevant statute(s) can be found at Minnesota Statutes Annotated § § 504B.175, 504B.178, and 504B.195. To access your state law, check out the Library of Congress’s legal research site.

Mississippi

No statutory limit

Missouri

Two months’ rent

More Information on Limits in this State

“Missouri Security Deposit Law (Limits and Deadlines) information:
A breakdown of Missouri landlord-tenant laws on security deposits.

Most residential leases and rental agreements in Missouri require a security deposit. This is a dollar amount, usually one month’s rent, that’s intended to cover damage to the premises beyond normal wear and tear, and to cushion the financial blow if a tenant skips out early on the lease without paying. Here’s a summary of Missouri landlord-tenant laws that cover the use and return of security deposits.”

Montana

No statutory limit

Nebraska

One month’s rent (no pets); one and one-quarter months’ rent (pets)

Nevada

Three months’ rent; if both landlord and tenant agree, tenant may use a surety bond for all or part of the deposit.

More Information on Limits in this State

“Nevada Security Deposit Law (Limits and Deadlines) information:
A breakdown of Nevada landlord-tenant laws on security deposits.

Most residential leases and rental agreements in Nevada require a security deposit. This is a dollar amount, usually one month’s rent, that’s intended to cover damage to the premises beyond normal wear and tear, and to cushion the financial blow if a tenant skips out early on the lease without paying. Here’s a summary of Nevada landlord-tenant laws that cover the use and return of security deposits.
Does Nevada law limit how much a landlord can charge a tenant for a security deposit?
Yes. Under Nevada landlord-tenant laws, a landlord may charge a tenant the equivalent of three months’ rent for the security deposit. And also in Nevada, if both the landlord and the tenant agree, the tenant can use a surety bond for all or part of the deposit.

What about when a tenant moves out? What is the deadline in Nevada for returning a security deposit?
Under Nevada law, a landlord must return the tenant’s security deposit within 30 days after the tenant has moved out.

Is there additional information that Nevada landlords must provide to tenants when it comes to security deposits in Nevada?
Yes. In addition to complying with Nevada laws on security deposit limits and how (and when) the deposit must be returned to tenants, landlords in Nevada must explain, somewhere in the lease or rental agreement, the conditions under which the landlord will refund the security deposit.

Where can I look up Nevada law on security deposits?
If you want to go right to the source and look up Nevada law on security deposits — or if you’re writing a letter to your landlord or tenant and want to cite the applicable law — the relevant statute(s) can be found at Nevada Revised Statutes Annotated § § 118A.240 to 118A.250. To access your state law, check out the Library of Congress’s legal research site.

You may also find useful information on tenant rights on the Nevada Legal Services website.

New Hampshire

One month’s rent or $100, whichever is greater; no limit when landlord and tenant share facilities

New Jersey

One and one-half month’s rent. Any additional security deposit, collected annually, may be no greater than 10% of the current security deposit.

More Information on Limits in this State

“New Jersey Security Deposit Law (Limits and Deadlines) information:
A breakdown of New Jersey landlord-tenant laws on security deposits.

Most residential leases and rental agreements in New Jersey require a security deposit. This is a dollar amount, usually one month’s rent, that’s intended to cover damage to the premises beyond normal wear and tear, and to cushion the financial blow if a tenant skips out early on the lease without paying. Here’s a summary of New Jersey landlord-tenant laws that cover the use and return of security deposits.
Does New Jersey law limit how much a landlord can charge a tenant for a security deposit?
Yes. Under New Jersey landlord-tenant law, landlords may charge the equivalent of one and one-half months’ rent for the security deposit. Any additional security deposit, collected annually, may be no greater than 10% of the current security deposit.

What about when a tenant moves out? What is the deadline in New Jersey for returning a security deposit?
Under New Jersey law, a landlord must return the tenant’s security deposit within 30 days after the tenant has surrendered the rental property to the landlord (that is, returned the keys and vacated the property), but within five days in case of fire, flood, condemnation, or evacuation.

Is there additional information that New Jersey landlords must provide to tenants when it comes to security deposits in New Jersey?
Yes. In addition to complying with New Jersey laws on security deposit limits and how (and when) the deposit must be returned to tenants, landlords in New Jersey must pay tenants interest earned on security deposits, either in annual interest payments or as credit toward payment of rent due. Within 30 days of receiving the deposit and every time the landlord pays the tenant interest, the landlord must disclose the name and address of the financial institution where the deposit is being held, the type of account, current rate of interest, and the amount of the deposit.

Are there any exceptions to New Jersey security deposit rules?
Yes. State security deposit laws do not apply to owner-occupied buildings with three or fewer units unless the tenant gives 30 days’ written notice to the landlord of the tenant’s wish to invoke the law.

Where can I look up New Jersey law on security deposits?
If you want to go right to the source and look up New Jersey law on security deposits — or if you’re writing a letter to your landlord or tenant and want to cite the applicable law — the relevant statute(s) can be found at New Jersey Statutes Annotated § § 46:8-19, 44:8-21.1, 44:8-21.2, 44:8-26. To access your state law, check out the Library of Congress’s legal research site.

For useful information on tenant rights in New Jersey, see the tenants’ rights guide published by Legal Services of New Jersey.

New Mexico

One month’s rent (for rental agreement of less than one year); no limit for leases of one year or more

New York

No statutory limit (for non-regulated units)

More Information on Limits in this State

“New York Security Deposit Law (Limits and Deadlines) information:
A breakdown of New York landlord-tenant laws on security deposits.

Most residential leases and rental agreements in New York require a security deposit. This is a dollar amount, usually one month’s rent, that’s intended to cover damage to the premises beyond normal wear and tear, and to cushion the financial blow if a tenant skips out early on the lease without paying. Here’s a summary of New York landlord-tenant laws that cover the use and return of security deposits.
Does New York law limit how much a landlord can charge a tenant for a security deposit?
No. In New York, there’s no statutory limit on security deposits for nonregulated units at the state level. But tenants and landlords (especially those in New York City and in rent controlled and rent stabilized rental units) should check city and county laws to see if their municipality has set a cap on security deposits for residential rentals.

What about when a tenant moves out? What is the deadline in New York for returning a security deposit?
Under New York law, a landlord must return the tenant’s security deposit within a reasonable time after the tenant has surrendered the rental property to the landlord–that is, returned the keys and vacated the property. What’s “”reasonable”” would ultimately be up to a small claims court judge (should a deposit dispute end up in court), but it typically means a window of 21 to 45 days.

Is there additional information that landlords must provide to tenants when it comes to security deposits in New York?
Yes. If a deposit is placed in a bank, landlords in New York must disclose the name and address of the financial institution where the security deposit is being held and the amount of the deposit. The landlord in every rental situation may retain an administrative fee of 1% per year on the sum deposited. Also in New York, landlords of nonregulated units in buildings with six or more units must pay tenants interest on the security deposit. The interest can be subtracted from the rent, paid at the end of each year, or paid at the end of the tenancy (according to the tenant’s choice).

Where can I look up New York law on security deposits?
If you want to go right to the source and look up New York law on security deposits — or if you’re writing a letter to a landlord or tenant and want to cite the applicable law — the relevant statute(s) can be found at N.Y. General Obligations Law § § 7-103 to 7-108. To access your state law, check out the Library of Congress’s legal research site.

For other useful information on tenant rights in New York, see the “”Tenants Rights Guide”” available from the New York State Attorney General.

North Carolina

One and one-half months’ rent for month-to-month rental agreements; two months’ rent if term is longer than two months; may add an additional “reasonable,” nonrefundable pet deposit.

More Information on Limits in this State

“North Carolina Security Deposit Law (Limits and Deadlines) information:
A breakdown of North Carolina landlord-tenant laws on security deposits.

Most residential leases and rental agreements in North Carolina require a security deposit. This is a dollar amount, usually one month’s rent, that’s intended to cover damage to the premises beyond normal wear and tear, and to cushion the financial blow if a tenant skips out early on the lease without paying. Here’s a summary of North Carolina landlord-tenant laws that cover the use and return of security deposits.
Does North Carolina law limit how much a landlord can charge a tenant for a security deposit?
Yes. Under North Carolina landlord-tenant laws, a landlord may charge a tenant the equivalent of one and one-half months’ rent for the security deposit on month-to-month rental agreements, and two months’ rent if the rental term is longer than two months. North Carolina landlords may add an additional “”reasonable,”” nonrefundable pet deposit.

What about when a tenant moves out? What is the deadline in North Carolina for returning a security deposit?
Under North Carolina law, a landlord must return the tenant’s security deposit within 30 days after the tenant has moved out. If the landlord’s claim against the deposit can’t be finalized within that time (for example, if necessary repairs haven’t been completed), the landlord may send an interim accounting at the 30-day point and then a final accounting within 60 days of the tenancy’s termination.

Is there additional information that North Carolina landlords must provide to tenants when it comes to security deposits in North Carolina?
Yes. In addition to complying with North Carolina laws on security deposit limits and how (and when) the deposit must be returned to tenants, landlords in North Carolina must, within 30 days of the beginning of the lease term, disclose the name and address of the banking institution where the deposit is located.

Where can I look up North Carolina law on security deposits?
If you want to go right to the source and look up North Carolina law on security deposits — or if you’re writing a letter to your landlord or tenant and want to cite the applicable law — the relevant statute(s) can be found at North Carolina General Statutes § § 42-50 to 42-56. To access your state law, check out the Library of Congress’s legal research site.

North Dakota

One month’s rent. If tenant has a pet that is not a service or companion animal that tenant keeps as a reasonable accommodation under fair housing laws, an additional pet deposit of up to $2,500 or two months’ rent, whichever is greater. To encourage renting to persons with felony convictions, landlords may charge up to two months’ rent as security.

Ohio

No statutory limit

More Information on Limits in this State

“Ohio Security Deposit Law (Limits and Deadlines) information:
A breakdown of Ohio landlord-tenant laws on security deposits.

Most residential leases and rental agreements in Ohio require a security deposit. This is a dollar amount, usually one month’s rent, that’s intended to cover damage to the premises beyond normal wear and tear, and to cushion the financial blow if a tenant skips out early on the lease without paying. Here’s a summary of Ohio landlord-tenant laws that cover the use and return of security deposits.
Does Ohio law limit how much a landlord can charge a tenant for a security deposit?
No. In Ohio, there’s no statutory limit on security deposits at the state level, but check your city and county laws to see if your municipality has set a cap on security deposits for residential rentals.

What about when a tenant moves out? What is the deadline in Ohio for returning a security deposit?
Under Ohio law, a landlord must return the tenant’s security deposit within 30 days after the tenant has moved out.

Is there additional information that Ohio landlords must provide to tenants when it comes to security deposits in Ohio?
Yes. In addition to complying with Ohio laws on security deposit limits and how (and when) the deposit must be returned to tenants, landlords in Ohio must pay interest on most security deposits at the rate of 5% per year, if the tenant stays six months or more.

Where can I look up Ohio law on security deposits?
If you want to go right to the source and look up Ohio law on security deposits — or if you’re writing a letter to your landlord or tenant and want to cite the applicable law — the relevant statute(s) can be found at Ohio Revised Code Annotated § 5321.16. To access your state law, check out the Library of Congress’s legal research site.

Oklahoma

No statutory limit

Oregon

No statutory limit. Landlord may not impose or increase deposit within first year unless parties agree to modify the rental agreement to allow for a pet or other cause, and the imposition or increase relates to that modification.

More Information on Limits in this State

“Oregon Security Deposit Law (Limits and Deadlines) information:
A breakdown of Oregon landlord-tenant laws on security deposits.

Most residential leases and rental agreements in Oregon require a security deposit. This is a dollar amount, usually one month’s rent, that’s intended to cover damage to the premises beyond normal wear and tear, and to cushion the financial blow if a tenant skips out early on the lease without paying. Here’s a summary of Oregon landlord-tenant laws that cover the use and return of security deposits.
Does Oregon law limit how much a landlord can charge a tenant for a security deposit?
No. In Oregon, there’s no statutory limit on security deposits at the state level. But landlords may not impose or increase a deposit within the first year of a tenancy unless both landlord and tenant agree to modify the rental agreement to allow for a pet or other cause, and the deposit imposition or increase relates to that modification.

Also, check your city and county laws to see if your municipality has set a cap on security deposits for residential rentals.

What about when a tenant moves out? What is the deadline in Oregon for returning a security deposit?
Under Oregon law, a landlord must return the tenant’s security deposit within 31 days after the tenant has moved out.

Is there additional information that Oregon landlords must provide to tenants when it comes to security deposits in Oregon?
Not at the state level in Oregon. But you might want to check your local (county, city, or town) laws to see if your municipality requires landlords to take additional steps when it comes to tenants’ security deposits.

Where can I look up Oregon law on security deposits?
If you want to look up Oregon law on security deposits — perhaps if you’re writing a letter to your landlord or tenant and want to cite the applicable law — the relevant statute(s) can be found at Oregon Revised Statutes § 90.300. To access your state law, check out the Library of Congress’s legal research site.

Pennsylvania

Two months’ rent for first year of renting; one month’s rent during second and subsequent years of renting

More Information on Limits in this State

“Pennsylvania Security Deposit Law (Limits and Deadlines) information:
A breakdown of Pennsylvania landlord-tenant laws on security deposits.

Most residential leases and rental agreements in Pennsylvania require a security deposit. This is a dollar amount, usually one month’s rent, that’s intended to cover damage to the premises beyond normal wear and tear, and to cushion the financial blow if a tenant skips out early on the lease without paying. Here’s a summary of Pennsylvania landlord-tenant laws that cover the use and return of security deposits.
Does Pennsylvania law limit how much a landlord can charge a tenant for a security deposit?
Yes. Under Pennsylvania landlord-tenant law, a landlord may charge a tenant the equivalent of two months’ rent for the security deposit for the first year of renting and the equivalent of one month’s rent during all subsequent years of renting.

What about when a tenant moves out? What is the deadline in Pennsylvania for returning a security deposit?
Under Pennsylvania law, a landlord must return the tenant’s security deposit within 30 days after the tenant has surrendered the rental property to the landlord (that is, returned the keys and vacated the property).

Is there additional information that Pennsylvania landlords must provide to tenants when it comes to security deposits in Pennsylvania?
Yes. For security deposits over $100, landlords in Pennsylvania must deposit the funds in a federally- or state-regulated institution and give the tenant the name and address of the banking institution and the amount of the deposit. Instead of placing deposits in a separate account, landlord may purchase a bond issued by a bonding company authorized to do business in the state.

Also in Pennsylvania, tenants who occupy a rental unit for two or more years are entitled to interest paid on the security deposit beginning on the 25th month of occupancy.

Where can I look up Pennsylvania law on security deposits?
If you want to go right to the source and look up Pennsylvania law on security deposits — or if you’re writing a letter to your landlord or tenant and want to cite the applicable law — the relevant statute(s) can be found at Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes Annotated Title 68 § § 250.511a to 250.512. To access your state law, check out the Library of Congress’s legal research site.

Rhode Island

One month’s rent

South Carolina

No statutory limit

More Information on Limits in this State

“South Carolina Security Deposit Law (Limits and Deadlines) information:
A breakdown of South Carolina landlord-tenant laws on security deposits.

Most residential leases and rental agreements in South Carolina require a security deposit. This is a dollar amount, usually one month’s rent, that’s intended to cover damage to the premises beyond normal wear and tear, and to cushion the financial blow if a tenant skips out early on the lease without paying. Here’s a summary of South Carolina landlord-tenant laws that cover the use and return of security deposits.
Does South Carolina law limit how much a landlord can charge a tenant for a security deposit?
No. In South Carolina, there’s no statutory limit on security deposits at the state level, but check your city and county laws to see if your municipality has set a cap on security deposits for residential rentals.

What about when a tenant moves out? What is the deadline in South Carolina for returning a security deposit?
Under South Carolina law, a landlord must return the tenant’s security deposit within 30 days after the tenant has moved out.

Is there additional information that South Carolina landlords must provide to tenants when it comes to security deposits in South Carolina?
Not at the state level in South Carolina. But be sure to check your local (county, city, or town) laws to see if your municipality requires landlords to take additional steps when it comes to tenants’ security deposits.

Where can I look up South Carolina law on security deposits?
If you want to go right to the source and look up South Carolina law on security deposits — or if you’re writing a letter to your landlord or tenant and want to cite the applicable law — the relevant statute(s) can be found at South Carolina Code Annotated § 27-40-410. To access your state law, check out the Library of Congress’s legal research site.

South Dakota

One month’s rent (higher deposit may be charged if special conditions pose a danger to maintenance of the premises)

Tennessee

No statutory limit

More Information on Limits in this State

“Tennessee Security Deposit Law (Limits and Deadlines) information:
A breakdown of Tennessee landlord-tenant laws on security deposits.

Most residential leases and rental agreements in Tennessee require a security deposit. This is a dollar amount, usually one month’s rent, that’s intended to cover damage to the premises beyond normal wear and tear, and to cushion the financial blow if a tenant skips out early on the lease without paying. Here’s a summary of Tennessee landlord-tenant laws that cover the use and return of security deposits.
Does Tennessee law limit how much a landlord can charge a tenant for a security deposit?
No. In Tennessee, there’s no statutory limit on security deposits at the state level, but check your city and county laws to see if your municipality has set a cap on security deposits for residential rentals.

Is there additional information that Tennessee landlords must provide to tenants when it comes to security deposits in Tennessee?
Yes. In addition to complying with Tennessee laws on security deposit limits and how (and when) the deposit must be returned to tenants, landlords in Tennessee must provide tenants with advance notice before taking any deductions out of the security deposit, such as for the cost of repairs for damage to the property.

Also, Tennessee landlords must put deposits in a separate account and orally or in writing disclose the location of this account to the tenant.

Are there any exceptions to Tennessee security deposit rules?
Yes. The rule does not apply in counties that have a population of less than 75,000, according to the 2010 federal census or any subsequent federal census.

Where can I look up Tennessee law on security deposits?
If you want to go right to the source and look up Tennessee law on security deposits — or if you’re writing a letter to your landlord or tenant and want to cite the applicable law — the relevant statute(s) can be found at Tennessee Code Annotated § 66-28-301. To access your state law, check out the Library of Congress’s legal research site.

Texas

No statutory limit

More Information on Limits in this State

“Texas Security Deposit Law (Limits and Deadlines) information:
A breakdown of Texas landlord-tenant laws on security deposits.

Most residential leases and rental agreements in Texas require a security deposit. This is a dollar amount, usually one month’s rent, that’s intended to cover damage to the premises beyond normal wear and tear, and to cushion the financial blow if a tenant skips out early on the lease without paying. Here’s a summary of Texas landlord-tenant laws that cover the use and return of security deposits.
Does Texas law limit how much a landlord can charge a tenant for a security deposit?
No. In Texas, there’s no statutory limit on security deposits at the state level, but check your city and county laws to see if your municipality has set a cap on security deposits for residential rentals.

What about when a tenant moves out? What is the deadline in Texas for returning a security deposit?
Under Texas law, a landlord must return the tenant’s security deposit within 30 days after the tenant has moved out. Landlord need not refund deposit if lease requires tenant to give written notice of tenant’s intention to surrender the premises.

Is there additional information that Texas landlords must provide to tenants when it comes to security deposits in Texas?
Not at the state level in Texas. But be sure to check your local (county, city, or town) laws to see if your municipality requires landlords to take additional steps when it comes to tenants’ security deposits.

Where can I look up Texas law on security deposits?
If you want to go right to the source and look up Texas law on security deposits — or if you’re writing a letter to your landlord or tenant and want to cite the applicable law — the relevant statute(s) can be found at Texas Property Code Annotated § § 92.101 to 92.109. To access your state law, check out the Library of Congress’s legal research site.

Utah

No statutory limit

Vermont

No statutory limit

Virginia

Two months’ rent

More Information on Limits in this State

“Virginia Security Deposit Law (Limits and Deadlines) information:
A breakdown of Virginia landlord-tenant laws on security deposits.

Most residential leases and rental agreements in Virginia require a security deposit. This is a dollar amount, usually one month’s rent, that’s intended to cover damage to the premises beyond normal wear and tear, and to cushion the financial blow if a tenant skips out early on the lease without paying. Here’s a summary of Virginia landlord-tenant laws that cover the use and return of security deposits.
Does Virginia law limit how much a landlord can charge a tenant for a security deposit?
Yes. Under Virginia landlord-tenant laws, a landlord may charge a tenant the equivalent of two months’ rent for the security deposit.

What about when a tenant moves out? What is the deadline in Virginia for returning a security deposit?
Under Virginia law, a landlord must return the tenant’s security deposit within 45 days after the tenant has moved out. The tenant has the right to be present at the final inspection. The lease can provide for expedited processing and specify an administrative fee for such processing, which will apply only if tenant requests it with a separate written document.

Are there any exceptions to Virginia security deposit rules?
Yes. Single-family residences are excempt where the owner(s) are natural persons or their estates who own in their own name no more than two single-family residents subject to a rental agreement

Where can I look up Virginia law on security deposits?
If you want to go right to the source and look up Virginia law on security deposits — or if you’re writing a letter to your landlord or tenant and want to cite the applicable law — the relevant statute(s) can be found at Virginia Code Annotated § 55-248.15:1. To access your state law, check out the Library of Congress’s legal research site.

Updated: November 2017”

Washington

No statutory limit

More Information on Limits in this State

“Washington Security Deposit Law (Limits and Deadlines) information:
A breakdown of Washington landlord-tenant laws on security deposits.

Most residential leases and rental agreements in Washington require a security deposit. This is a dollar amount, usually one month’s rent, that’s intended to cover damage to the premises beyond normal wear and tear, and to cushion the financial blow if a tenant skips out early on the lease without paying. Here’s a summary of Washington landlord-tenant laws that cover the use and return of security deposits.
Does Washington law limit how much a landlord can charge a tenant for a security deposit?
No. In Washington, there’s no statutory limit on security deposits at the state level, but check your city and county laws to see if your municipality has set a cap on security deposits for residential rentals.

What about when a tenant moves out? What is the deadline in Washington for returning a security deposit?
Under Washington law, a landlord must return the tenant’s security deposit within 21 days after the tenant has moved out.

Is there additional information that Washington landlords must provide to tenants when it comes to security deposits in Washington?
Yes. Landlords in Washington must disclose in the lease or rental agreement the circumstances under which all or part of the deposit may be withheld and must provide a receipt with the name and location of the banking institution where the deposit is being held. No deposit may be collected unless the rental agreement is in writing and the landlord has provided the tenant a written checklist or statement describing the condition and cleanliness of or existing damage to the premises and furnishings at the start of the tenancy. If a landlord collects a nonrefundable fee, the rental document must clearly specify that it is nonrefundable.

Are there any exceptions to Washington security deposit rules?
Yes. Security deposit rules do not apply to a lease of a single-family dwelling of a year or more, or to a landlord’s employees (such as a manager) whose right to coccupy is conditioned upon employment in or about the prmieses.

Where can I look up Washington law on security deposits?
If you want to go right to the source and look up Washington law on security deposits — or if you’re writing a letter to your landlord or tenant and want to cite the applicable law — the relevant statute(s) can be found at Washington Revised Code Annotated § § 59.18.260 to 59.18.285. To access your state law, check out the Library of Congress’s legal research site.

Updated: November 2017”

West Virginia

No statutory limit

Wisconsin

No statutory limit

More Information on Limits in this State

Wisconsin Security Deposit Law (Limits and Deadlines) information:
A breakdown of Wisconsin landlord-tenant laws on security deposits.

Most residential leases and rental agreements in Wisconsin require a security deposit. This is a dollar amount, usually one month’s rent, that’s intended to cover damage to the premises beyond normal wear and tear, and to cushion the financial blow if a tenant skips out early on the lease without paying. Here’s a summary of Wisconsin landlord-tenant laws that cover the use and return of security deposits.
Does Wisconsin law limit how much a landlord can charge a tenant for a security deposit?
No. In Wisconsin, there’s no statutory limit on security deposits at the state level, but check your city and county laws to see if your municipality has set a cap on security deposits for residential rentals.

What about when a tenant moves out? What is the deadline in Wisconsin for returning a security deposit?
Under Wisconsin law, a landlord must return the tenant’s security deposit within 21 days after the tenant has moved out.

Is there additional information that Wisconsin landlords must provide to tenants when it comes to security deposits in Wisconsin?
Yes. Before accepting the deposit, landlords in Wisconsin must inform the tenant of 1) the tenant’s inspection rights, 2) all habitability defects, 3) any outstanding building and housing code violations, 4) the means by which shared utilities will be billed, and 5) whether or not utilities are paid for by the landlord.

Where can I look up Wisconsin law on security deposits?
If you want to go right to the source and look up Wisconsin law on security deposits — or if you’re writing a letter to your landlord or tenant and want to cite the applicable law — the relevant statute(s) can be found at Wisconsin Administrative Code, ATCP § 134.04; 134.06 and Wisconsin Statute § 704.28. To access your state law, check out the Library of Congress’s legal research site.

Wyoming

No statutory limit

Source: Nolo