California Security Deposit Law
When do I get my deposit back in California?
Your California landlord has 21 days to return your security deposit after you move out. Calculate your exact deadline below — and if they're late, generate a free demand letter.
California Security Deposit Law
Return Deadline
21 days after move-out
Penalty for Late Return
Bad faith: you can recover up to twice the deposit amount, plus actual damages
Additional Notes
Must provide itemization even if keeping full deposit; as of 2025, landlords must photograph unit before/after tenancy (AB 2801); electronic refund required if rent was paid electronically (AB 414, eff. Jan 2026)
Legal Source
Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5 →Know someone renting in California?
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California Security Deposit FAQ
How long does a California landlord have to return my deposit?
In California, landlords are required to return your security deposit within 21 days after you move out. The landlord must provide itemization even if keeping full deposit. as of 2025, landlords must photograph unit before/after tenancy (AB 2801). electronic refund required if rent was paid electronically (AB 414, eff. Jan 2026)
What if my California landlord misses the deadline?
In cases of bad faith, the penalty is you can recover up to twice the deposit amount, plus actual damages. If your landlord fails to meet the 21-day deadline, you may have legal recourse to recover your deposit plus additional damages.
Can my landlord make deductions from my deposit?
Yes, California landlords can deduct for unpaid rent and damages beyond normal wear and tear. However, they must provide an itemized statement of deductions within the 21-day window.
How do I write a demand letter for my deposit in California?
A demand letter should include your name, the property address, move-out date, deposit amount, and a citation of California's 21-day deadline. Send it via certified mail. Generate a free demand letter here.
California Security Deposit Guides
Sue Your Landlord in California
Small claims court guide for California
California Demand Letter
Free demand letter template for California tenants
Complete Deposit Recovery Guide
Step-by-step guide to getting your full deposit back
Normal Wear vs. Damage
What your landlord can't charge you for
What Can Landlords Deduct?
Know which deductions are valid
Document Your Move-Out
Photo guide to protecting your deposit
California City Guides
Los Angeles
Avg. rent: $2,900
San Francisco
Avg. rent: $3,200
San Diego
Avg. rent: $2,600
San Jose
Avg. rent: $2,800
Fresno
Avg. rent: $1,400
Sacramento
Avg. rent: $1,700
Long Beach
Avg. rent: $2,100
Oakland
Avg. rent: $2,400
Bakersfield
Avg. rent: $1,300
Anaheim
Avg. rent: $2,200
Santa Ana
Avg. rent: $2,000
Riverside
Avg. rent: $1,800
Irvine
Avg. rent: $2,800
Fremont
Avg. rent: $2,800
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Landlord missed the deadline?
Generate a free demand letter citing California law. Most landlords respond within days when they receive a formal written demand.
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