Security Deposit Demand Letter Template
Create a formal demand letter to your former landlord for the return of your security deposit.
Know Your Rights: Most states require landlords to return security deposits within 14-30 days. Check your local laws to be sure.
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1. Your Information
This goes at the top of your letter
2. Landlord Information
The recipient of the letter
3. Lease & Deposit Details
Information about your tenancy
4. Legal Details
Your state's specific requirements
Search online for "security deposit law [your state]"
The number of days your landlord has to return your deposit by law.
5. Contact Information
How your landlord can reach you
Download Your Letter
Fill in the form above to personalize your letter, or download the template as-is
[Your Name]
[Your Former Address]
[City, State ZIP]
July 4, 2025
[Landlord's Name/Property Management Company]
[Landlord's Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Formal Demand for Return of Security Deposit
To Whom It May Concern:
This letter serves as a formal demand for the return of my security deposit, as required by law.
I was a tenant at [Your Former Address] from [Lease Start Date] to [Lease End Date]. On [Move-Out Date], I vacated the premises and returned the keys. My forwarding address is [Your Forwarding Address].
My security deposit of $[Security Deposit Amount] was paid on [Date Security Deposit Paid].
According to [State/Local Law Reference, e.g., California Civil Code § 1950.5], a landlord is required to return the security deposit within [Number of Days] days after a tenant vacates the premises. It has now been [Number of Days Since Move-Out] days since I moved out, and I have not yet received my security deposit or a detailed, itemized statement of deductions.
Failure to return the security deposit within the legally mandated timeframe may entitle me to damages, including up to [Penalty Amount, e.g., twice the amount of the security deposit] in addition to the original deposit amount, plus court costs and attorney's fees, should I be forced to pursue this matter in small claims court.
Please send the full amount of my security deposit to my forwarding address within 10 days of your receipt of this letter.
If you have any questions, you can contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address].
I look forward to your prompt attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Printed Name]
What Happens After You Send This
When Delivered (1-5 business days)
Your landlord is formally on notice with proof of delivery.
Within 1-2 weeks after delivery
You should receive your deposit or a response.
If They Don't Respond
You may need to file a claim in small claims court.