A lease deposit return letter is a formal written request asking your landlord to return your security deposit after you've moved out. This letter documents your demand, creates a paper trail, and puts your landlord on notice that you're serious about getting your money back. Key components of a lease deposit return letter include: your name and current mailing address, landlord's name and address, property address you rented, move-in and move-out dates, original deposit amount paid, your state's deadline reference, specific amount requested, and a response deadline of 7-14 days. Formatting tips: Use a professional business letter format, keep the tone firm but polite, reference your state's specific security deposit law by code section, include consequences if they don't comply such as small claims court and statutory damages, and send via certified mail with return receipt for proof of delivery. State-specific laws and timeframes: California requires 21 days with 2x deposit penalty in bad faith cases. Florida allows 15-30 days with attorney fees for violations. Texas requires 30 days with 3x deposit plus $100 penalty. New York requires 14 days with 2x deposit for willful violations. Illinois allows 30-45 days with 2x deposit penalty. Georgia requires 30 days with 3x deposit penalty. Landlords can only deduct for actual damages beyond normal wear and tear. They cannot charge for faded paint, worn carpet, minor scuffs, or small nail holes. Best practices: Always send via certified mail with return receipt for proof of delivery. If you don't hear back, send a second letter as final notice before filing in small claims court. When landlords ignore demand letters, file in small claims court for your deposit plus statutory damages, often 2-3x the original amount. For just $29, PettyLawsuit generates a professional, state-specific demand letter that cites your exact legal rights and deadlines. Over 70% of landlords pay after receiving a professional demand letter.