Security Deposit Demand Letter
Demand the return of your security deposit from a landlord who hasn't returned it within the legal deadline. Includes your state's specific statute, deadline, and penalty provisions.
Statute of Limitations Warning
Legal deadlines apply to your claim. You lose your right to act if you wait too long. Send notice as soon as possible.
Why this letter works:
- Cites the exact law: Automatically applies the correct state and federal statutes to your situation.
- Sets a firm deadline: Legally compels a response within the required statutory timeframe.
- Creates a paper trail: Designed to serve as Exhibit A if you need to escalate to an agency or court.
Answer a few questions and we'll create your personalized letter.
New here? Read the full guide on security deposits first.
One-time price:$19Paid once at the end. No subscription.
What you'll get
Below is a real example. Your version will be personalized with your name, the exact statute that applies where you are, and the right deadline.
March 14, 2026
RE: Demand for Return of Security Deposit — 123 Main St, Apt 4B
Dear Property Manager:
I vacated the above-referenced property on February 10, 2026. Under California Civil Code § 1950.5, you were required to return my $1,800 security deposit, along with any itemized statement of deductions, within 21 days of move-out. As of the date of this letter, I have received neither the deposit nor a written accounting.
This letter is a formal demand that you return the full $1,800 within 14 days of receipt of this notice. If you fail to comply, I will pursue all remedies available under California Civil Code § 1950.5(l), including statutory damages of up to twice the amount of the deposit for bad-faith retention.
The full letter — including the statute citations for your state — is shown above. Only the recipient block, signature, and mailing instructions are masked. They appear in the PDF you download after payment ($19).
Your Action Plan
This letter is part of a formal escalation process.
Download your personalized PDF immediately after purchase and send it.
Your letter includes a firm deadline. Do not engage in informal text messages during this time.
If they miss the deadline, return to us using the link in your email receipt. You will unlock the next stage document at a discounted rate.
Your Situation
Tell us a bit about your rental situation so we can tailor your letter.
This determines which law and deadlines apply to your letter.
The total amount you paid as a security deposit.
Before you start
What exactly do I get, and when?
A personalized PDF letter, written around the statute that applies to your situation, with the deadline and the consequence spelled out. It downloads the moment payment confirms, back here on commoner-law.com — there is no waiting period and no account to create. You can also add certified mail at checkout and we will send the physical letter for you.
How much is it?
$19, once. Not a subscription, and nothing is charged until you complete payment on Stripe at the end of the wizard. Any add-ons you select show their own price before you pay.
Is this legal advice?
This tool creates a demand letter for self-help purposes. It is not legal advice and does not replace consultation with a licensed attorney. A demand letter is a formal request — it does not guarantee your deposit will be returned. If the amount exceeds your state's small claims court limit, or if your landlord has an attorney, consider consulting a lawyer.
What if I need to change something afterwards?
Tell us and we will either adjust the letter and send you the updated version at no cost, or refund you in full — your choice. If we can’t deliver what you paid for, the refund is automatic. Full terms are on our promise page.
Do I have to pay to know if I have a case?
No. The rights encyclopedia on this site is free and cites the same primary sources the letter does. Read the relevant guide first — plenty of situations are resolved by a phone call to a free statutory body, and where one exists we say so.