Security Deposit Deduction Checker

Enter the numbers, find out if the deduction is legal.

📅 Updated August 6, 2026⏱ 3 min read✅ Reviewed by LexAI Legal Team🗺️ Applies to: All States

Legal Disclaimer: This tool gives a general read based on common state rules, not a legal determination. Confirm specifics against your state's exact statute before acting.

Deposit amount

Amount deducted (if known)

Days since move-out

Got an itemized list?

State

Fill in the fields above to check your situation.

How This Check Works

Every state sets a deadline for landlords to either return a security deposit in full or send an itemized list of deductions. Miss that deadline, and most states say the landlord forfeits the right to deduct anything at all — you may be owed the full deposit back, sometimes with a penalty on top. This tool checks your numbers against your state’s deadline and flags the most common violation pattern.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my landlord says I owe more than my deposit covers?

Landlords can sometimes bill beyond the deposit for extensive damage, but the same rules apply: only actual damage counts, itemized documentation is required, and normal wear and tear can never be charged. A large overage claim deserves extra scrutiny — ask for receipts or repair estimates.

My landlord sent the list on time, but I still disagree with it. Now what?

Meeting the deadline only satisfies the procedural requirement — it doesn't make every listed charge valid. Compare each line item against your move-in condition (photos help enormously) and dispute anything that looks like normal wear and tear in a written demand.