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Security Deposit Return Request
You moved out, left the place in good shape, and the deposit didn't come back. Or it came back short, with deductions that don't add up. A written demand creates the record you need and, often, gets the deposit returned without going to court. LetterLotus helps you put together a clear, businesslike letter that lays out the facts and asks for what you are owed.
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Writing assistance tool · Not legal advice. LetterLotus is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is created by using this tool.
Your letter
- moved out May 31, keys returned
- $1,500 deposit, nothing returned
- cleaned it, and I have the photos
written into
I moved out of 312 Cedar Lane on May 31 and returned the keys that day. My $1,500 deposit has not been returned, and the deadline for returning it has now passed.
I am requesting the full deposit by June 30. I can provide the move-out photographs and the cleaning receipt.
Balanced & Thorough
How It Works
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We generate 4 different versions of your letter, each with a different tone. You pick the one that sounds most like you.
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Make any edits you want, then download a print-ready PDF or Word document. It's your letter.
What Your Security Deposit Covers
- A clear statement of the deposit amount paid and the amount being demanded
- The move-out date and the condition of the unit when you left
- A factual response to any deductions you dispute
- A specific deadline and forwarding address for return of the deposit
- A neutral mention of small-claims court as a next step if the deposit is not returned
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a security deposit demand letter?
A security deposit demand letter is a written request to your landlord for the return of your security deposit. It documents that you asked for the deposit back, sets a deadline, and creates a dated paper trail you can use later if the matter ends up in small-claims court. It is the standard first step when a landlord has missed the statutory return deadline or made deductions you dispute.
How long does my landlord have to return my deposit?
It depends on your state. The deadlines range from 14 days (New York, Hawaii) to 60 days (Arkansas, West Virginia), with 30 days being the most common. Most states also require an itemized statement of any deductions within the same window. Check your state's exact rule before assuming the deadline has passed. This tool does not look up state law for you, so the letter refers to the statutory deadline in general terms unless you tell us the specific statute or rule you want cited.
Does this tool tell me which state law applies to me?
No. State security deposit laws vary too much for us to accurately apply them to your situation, and small mistakes in citation can hurt your case. If you want to cite a specific statute or rule, you can supply it on the questionnaire and we will include your wording. If you do not, the letter refers to your state's deadline in general terms.
What if the landlord deducted things I do not agree with?
Address each disputed deduction briefly and factually. Most states bar deductions for normal wear and tear, and most states require an itemized statement that supports each charge. If the landlord deducted for carpet replacement on a worn carpet, or for cleaning when the unit was already professionally cleaned, the letter can say so. Attach photos, receipts, and the itemized statement (if you got one) as enclosures.
Should I threaten to sue in my letter?
No. The letter mentions small-claims court only as a neutral next step the tenant is prepared to take if the deposit is not returned by the deadline. Threats beyond that (criminal complaints, state bar complaints, social media campaigns) weaken the letter and can expose you to retaliation claims. The most effective demand letters are firm and factual, not hostile.
How should I send the letter, and how long should I give the landlord?
Send the letter by certified mail with return receipt requested. The green card is your proof of delivery and the date the clock starts. Fourteen days is the standard recommended deadline; shorter than seven days reads as unreasonable. If the landlord does not respond by the deadline, you have documented the demand and can move to small-claims court.
Is this legal advice?
No. This tool helps you write a clear, businesslike demand letter using facts you provide. It does not evaluate your case, calculate statutory damages, look up state law for you, or tell you whether to sue. For complex situations, including bad-faith retention, post-eviction disputes, federally subsidized housing, or retaliation claims, contact a local tenant rights organization or attorney.
How much does this cost?
$39, one time. No subscription, no hidden fees. You get PDF, Word, and clipboard formats, plus inline editing and unlimited re-downloads.
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Important: This is a writing tool, not legal advice. Consult an attorney for guidance on your specific situation.
Ready to Write Your Letter?
The statutory deadline does not pause while you wait. Get your demand in writing and start the clock.
Writing assistance tool. Not a law firm. Not legal advice.