Security deposit › Rules by state
Security deposit rules by state (2026)
Each US state sets its own rules for the maximum security deposit a landlord can charge, the deadline to return the deposit, and whether interest must be paid on the deposit while the landlord holds it. This table summarizes the current rules — always verify with your state housing authority before drafting your lease.
| State | Maximum deposit | Return deadline | Interest |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 1 month's rent | 60 days | Not required |
| Alaska | 2 months' rent (rent under $2,000/mo) | 14–30 days | Not required |
| Arizona | 1.5 months' rent | 14 days | Not required |
| California | 1 month's rent (since July 2024) | 21 days | Not required statewide |
| Colorado | No limit | 30–60 days | Not required |
| Florida | No limit | 15–60 days | Required if held > 6 months |
| Georgia | No limit | 30 days | Not required |
| Illinois | No statewide limit (Chicago: 1.5 months) | 30–45 days | Required (5+ units, 6+ months) |
| Massachusetts | 1 month's rent | 30 days | Required (5%) |
| Michigan | 1.5 months' rent | 30 days | Not required |
| New Jersey | 1.5 months' rent | 30 days | Required |
| New York | 1 month's rent | 14 days | Required (6+ units) |
| Ohio | No limit | 30 days | Required (over $50, 6+ months) |
| Pennsylvania | 2 months yr-1, 1 month after | 30 days | Required (2+ years) |
| Texas | No limit | 30 days | Not required |
| Virginia | 2 months' rent | 45 days | Not required |
| Washington | No limit | 30 days | Not required |
How states regulate security deposits
State security deposit law typically covers four things:
- Maximum amount — usually expressed as a multiple of monthly rent.
- Where the deposit must be held — many states require a separate, interest-bearing account.
- Return deadline — counted from the day the tenant vacates and returns possession.
- Itemized statement — landlords must provide a written list of deductions, not just a lump sum.
FAQs
What is the maximum security deposit a landlord can charge?
The maximum varies by state. Common caps are 1 month (California, New York, Massachusetts), 1.5 months (Arizona, Michigan, New Jersey), or 2 months (Alaska, Virginia). Many states (Texas, Florida, Colorado, Illinois statewide) have no statutory limit.
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit?
Return deadlines range from 14 days (Alaska, New York, Arizona) to 60 days (Alabama, Florida for contested deductions). Most states fall in the 21–30 day range.
What can be lawfully deducted from a security deposit?
Unpaid rent, repair costs for damage beyond ordinary wear and tear, and cleaning costs to restore the unit to its move-in condition. Routine wear (faded paint, minor carpet wear, small nail holes) cannot be deducted in most states.