LandlordGauge

Security deposit return deadline calculator by state

Estimate deposit return dates, ordinary deposit limits and refund arithmetic in the ten largest renter states, with statutes and assumptions.

The deposit and move-out

Where and when

The ten largest renter-household states in the 2024 Census ACS one-year table.

Format: MM/DD/YYYY

Assumes termination and return of possession happen on this day where required.

Format: MM/DD/YYYY

When the landlord received the address in writing. Leave blank if not provided.

Amounts and property

USD. Used to compare ordinary deposit limits.

The total security held before these deductions, including any pet deposit or other charge held as security.

Furnished property?

Furnishing does not automatically increase an ordinary current statutory limit.

California deposit limit

Format: MM/DD/YYYY

The earliest date the landlord demanded or received this security. The limit in force on that date applies.

Itemized deductions

Remove all rows if no deductions are proposed.

Deduction 1

For example, documented damage beyond ordinary wear.

The supported cost for this item, in dollars.

Your deposit check

Example result

Ordinary return deadline under the assumptions

October 22, 202621 calendar days after move-out, assuming any required termination and possession events happen that day.

Refund after entered deductions

$1,850

The entered deposit less $150 in proposed deductions leaves $1,850 before interest.

Deposit limit check

Within the statutory limit

Statutory limit: $2,000

Civil Code 1950.5(c)(1): one month’s rent for security collected from July 1, 2024, furnished or not. Pet, key and cleaning charges count as security; an advance payment of at least six months’ rent on a lease of six months or longer is allowed separately (1950.5(c)(2)). If a service member was charged more than the standard security, the extra must be returned after no more than six months without rent arrears (1950.5(c)(4)); that refund is not calculated.

Statute cited

California Civil Code 1950.5

Rates as of