Most states require landlords to return your security deposit within 14-30 days after you move out. The exact timeline depends on your state: California gives landlords 21 days under Civil Code Section 1950.5, Florida allows 15-60 days depending on deductions under Florida Statute 83.49, Texas requires return within 30 days with 3x penalty for violations, New York requires 14 days, Pennsylvania allows 30 days with 2x penalty, Illinois gives 30-45 days depending on property size, Georgia allows 30 days with 3x penalty, Arizona has one of the fastest deadlines at 14 days, Washington gives 21 days, and Colorado allows 30-60 days with 3x penalty for violations. If your landlord misses the deadline, you may be entitled to 2-3x your deposit amount as damages. Security deposit disputes are the most common landlord-tenant issue, affecting 45% of renters. Common reasons landlords wrongfully withhold deposits include charging for normal wear and tear (which is NOT allowed), excessive cleaning fees, and made-up damages. Normal wear and tear includes faded paint, worn carpet from regular use, small nail holes, loose door handles, and minor scuffs. Landlords CAN deduct for actual damage like holes in walls, burns or stains, broken appliances, missing fixtures, and pet damage beyond normal use. How to get your security deposit back: Step 1 - Know your state's deadline and document everything at move-out with photos and videos. Step 2 - Provide your forwarding address in writing so the landlord knows where to send the check. Step 3 - Wait for your state's deadline to pass. Step 4 - If they don't return it, send a formal demand letter citing your state's law and penalties. PettyLawsuit generates professional demand letters for $29 that cite your state's specific statutes and deadlines. 70% of landlords pay after receiving a demand letter to avoid court. Step 5 - If they ignore the demand, file in small claims court for 2-3x your deposit amount plus court costs. PettyLawsuit provides all the court documents you need. No lawyer required. FAQ: How long does landlord have to return deposit California? 21 days under California Civil Code Section 1950.5 with 2x penalty for bad faith. How long does landlord have to return deposit Florida? 15 days if returning full deposit, 30 days if making deductions with itemized statement required by certified mail. Can a landlord keep my deposit for normal wear and tear? No, landlords cannot charge for normal wear and tear including faded paint, worn carpet, minor scuffs, and small nail holes. What is the penalty for landlords who don't return deposits on time? Penalties vary by state: California 2x, Texas 3x plus $100, Florida attorney fees, New York 2x, Georgia 3x. Do landlords have to provide an itemized list? Yes, most states require landlords to provide an itemized written statement explaining any deductions with receipts. PettyLawsuit helps you recover your security deposit for just $29 - demand letter and court documents included. Over 70% of cases settle after the demand letter without going to court.