Get your money back, in writing.
A professional demand letter built from your facts, ready to sign and send in about 10 minutes. Two versions included — one calm, one firm — so you can match the tone to your landlord.
Start Demand Letter — $30Every demand letter is generated in two tones so you can choose the right approach.
Calm, firm, and credible. Best when you want to keep things civil before escalating.
"Per our move-out walkthrough on March 3 and your state's 21-day deposit return requirement, please remit the $1,840 owed by April 12, 2026. I've attached the walkthrough checklist and photographs documenting the property's condition."
Tone: reasonable, cites specifics
Sharper, with deadlines and consequences. Best after a landlord has ignored you.
"Your continued withholding of my $1,840 security deposit is in direct violation of state law. If payment is not received by April 12, 2026, I will file in small claims court for the full amount plus statutory damages and costs."
Tone: firm, deadline-driven
We'll print your chosen version and mail it directly to your landlord via USPS First-Class Mail. Track delivery from your dashboard. A mailed demand letter creates a paper trail that strengthens any future small claims case.
Upgrade to Small Claims Fighter. You'll get a six-document court-prep packet — case summary, damages worksheet, evidence checklist, hearing prep, filing reminders, and service instructions. The demand letter you already sent becomes your first exhibit.
See Small Claims Fighter — $50 →Common Questions
Start with these renter guides on repainting, carpet, cleaning fees, deposit timelines, and the difference between ordinary wear and real damage.
Landlords often try to pass repainting costs to tenants after move out. Here is when that charge may be valid, when it may not be, and how renters can respond.
April 6, 2026
Read guide →Full carpet replacement is one of the biggest move-out charges renters see. Here is when that bill may be justified, when it may not be, and how to challenge it.
April 6, 2026
Read guide →If your landlord kept your deposit but never sent a real itemized deduction list, that missing paper trail may matter more than you think. Here is what to do next.
April 6, 2026
Read guide →Guided wizard. Two versions. About 10 minutes.
Start My Demand Letter — $30DontPayClaims.com is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice or representation.