Security deposit

A security deposit is a sum of money — usually one to two months’ rent — that a landlord collects at the start of a tenancy and holds in trust as protection against unpaid rent, beyond-normal-wear damage, or other lease violations. It is not income. It is the tenant’s money the landlord is holding.

Most states cap how much landlords can require, where the money must be kept (often a separate interest-bearing escrow account), how soon after move-out the deposit must be returned (commonly 14–30 days), and what kinds of deductions are allowed. Normal wear and tear — faded paint, minor carpet wear, small nail holes — generally cannot be deducted. Damage beyond normal use can.

Landlords are typically required to provide an itemized statement of deductions along with any portion they keep. If they don’t return the deposit on time or can’t document deductions, many states allow tenants to recover the full deposit plus statutory penalties (sometimes double or triple).

Document the unit’s condition with dated photos at move-in and move-out. Send any disputes in writing. If the landlord stonewalls, small-claims court is the usual remedy and doesn’t require an attorney.