Security deposit demand letter
Fill in the form. The letter updates as you type and cites the deadline and statute for your state.
FL §83.49 · NY GOL §7-108 · TX Prop. Code §92.103–.109 · WA RCW 59.18.280 · OH §5321.16
This is general information based on the statute text, not legal advice. Your lease, local ordinances and court decisions can also matter. Nothing you type leaves your browser.
Common questions
Q. How should I send it?
A. Use a method that proves delivery, such as certified mail with return receipt, and keep a copy. In Florida, the landlord’s claim notice must go by certified mail or e-mail under §83.505 (§83.49(3)(a)), so matching that standard is sensible.
Q. When should I send it?
A. After the landlord’s deadline has passed: 30 days after the lease ended in Florida, 14 days after you vacated in New York, 30 days in Texas, Washington and Ohio. Sending earlier is allowed, but the landlord may still act within its deadline. If you received a Florida claim notice you disagree with, send your written objection within 15 days of receiving it.
Q. Do I need a lawyer to sue for my deposit?
A. Not necessarily. Small claims courts are designed for people without lawyers, and in Florida the winner of a deposit case is entitled to court costs and a reasonable attorney’s fee (§83.49(3)(c)).
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▸ Ohio security deposit and rental rules >
▸ North Carolina security deposit and rental rules >
Statutes:Fla. Stat. §83.49 (Deposit money or advance rent) · N.Y. Gen. Oblig. Law §7-108 · Tex. Prop. Code ch. 92 (§92.019, §§92.101–92.109) · RCW 59.18.280 · Ohio Rev. Code §5321.16
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