Landlord Won't Return Your Security Deposit?
You have legal rights. In most states, landlords face penalties for failing to return deposits on time. We'll help you demand what's yours.
Get My Deposit Back — $30How Long Does Your Landlord Have?
Every state sets a deadline for landlords to return security deposits after a tenant moves out. Deadlines typically range from 14 to 45 days depending on the state. If your landlord has missed this deadline, they may already be in violation of the law.
Some states require the deposit to be returned with interest. Others impose automatic penalties (often 2x or 3x the deposit amount) when a landlord withholds in bad faith or misses the deadline.
Did Your Landlord Miss the Deadline?
If the legal deadline in your state has passed and you haven't received your deposit or an itemized statement of deductions, your landlord may owe you the full deposit plus penalties. A demand letter is the first step to recovering what you're owed.
What You Should Do
Document everything
Gather your lease, move-out photos, forwarding address proof, and any communication with your landlord.
Send a demand letter
A formal demand letter puts your landlord on notice and often resolves the issue without court. Our Demand Fighter generates one in minutes.
Set a deadline
Give your landlord 7–14 days to respond. If they don't, you have grounds for small claims court.
File in small claims if needed
If the demand letter doesn't work, our Small Claims Fighter helps you prepare everything you need for court.
Frequently Asked Questions
Don't Let Your Landlord Keep Your Money
Generate a professional demand letter in about 10 minutes.
DontPayClaims.com is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice or representation.