This is a formal demand letter from a tenant to a landlord that requests the return of the tenant's security deposit after vacating the premises. This letter serves to notify the landlord of their obligation to return the deposit within a specified period, as outlined by state law, and indicates that legal action may follow if they fail to comply. Unlike other forms, this letter is specifically focused on security deposit issues, providing a clear demand to the landlord.
This form should be used when a tenant has vacated a rental property and has not received their security deposit back within the required time frame as per state law. It is appropriate to send this letter after a reasonable period has passed since the tenant moved out, especially if the landlord has not communicated about the deposit return.
Who should use this form:
Steps to complete this form:
This form does not typically require notarization unless specified by local law. It is important to check your state's requirements to ensure that any necessary conditions are met for the letter to be legally valid.
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Make edits, fill in missing information, and update formatting in US Legal Forms—just like you would in MS Word.

Download a copy, print it, send it by email, or mail it via USPS—whatever works best for your next step.

Sign and collect signatures with our SignNow integration. Send to multiple recipients, set reminders, and more. Go Premium to unlock E-Sign.

If this form requires notarization, complete it online through a secure video call—no need to meet a notary in person or wait for an appointment.

We protect your documents and personal data by following strict security and privacy standards.
If your deposit didn't need to be protected and your landlord refuses to give it back, you might have to take them to court.You'll need to take your landlord to the small claims court to get your money back.
Your landlord can only do this if you left your tenancy early. Your landlord may try to withhold some or all of your deposit for a different reason, such as having a noisy party in the property. Your landlord cannot do this. Landlords can only take money for any financial loss they have suffered.
Landlord Rights When Tenant Destroys PropertyIf the tenant is evicted or already abandoned the property the landlord can deduct money from the security deposit. If the damages exceed the funds in the security deposit the landlord can sue the tenant in small claims court.
Concisely review the main facts and lay out the reasons your landlord owes you money. Include copies of relevant letters and agreements, such as your notice to move out. Ask for exactly what you want, such as the full amount of your deposit within ten days. Cite state security deposit law.
Your Landlord is legally obligated to return your deposit within 10 days of you both agreeing how much you'll get back (after the tenancy has ended, of course).
Fill out the Request for Return of Security Deposit form (not interactive; you must print, then fill out the form). Send the form to your former landlord. Keep a photo-copy of the form for yourself. Hold on to the Return Receipt when it comes back in the mail.