Security deposits

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Security deposits

A security deposit is money a tenant pays a landlord at the beginning of a lease. The landlord holds onto the money in case it is needed for repairs or other expenses when the tenant moves out. 

Landlords must follow strict rules for returning security deposits and making deductions. Discover more about how much security deposits can be, when some landlords have to pay interest on the deposit, the requirements for deducting expenses from a security deposit, and how to sue to get a security deposit back.

Security deposits
Understand the purpose of security deposits.
Intro
Paying a security deposit
Learn the difference between a security deposit and a move-in fee, local limits on how much a security deposit can be, and when interest is due.
FAQ
Using a security deposit for repairs
Find out the rules landlords must follow when using a security deposit to make repairs.
FAQ
Getting back a security deposit
Before moving out, learn the steps to get a security deposit back.
How-To
Security deposit demand letter
This Easy Form helps you make a letter asking your landlord to return your security deposit.
Easy Form
Security deposit complaint
This Easy Form makes a Small Claims Complaint you can use to sue a former landlord to return your security deposit.
Easy Form
Small claims complaint
This Easy Form helps you make the forms to sue someone for up to $10,000. It can be used to sue a landlord for a security deposit.
Easy Form