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Free US security deposit demand letter template

Use this state-neutral starting point when a US landlord misses the local deadline for returning a security deposit or makes unsupported deductions.

Who this letter is for

Demand the return of a rental deposit or an itemised explanation of deductions. It is written in the formal register companies, landlords and card issuers expect, and it records the facts, the remedy sought and the deadline in a way that supports any later escalation to an ombudsman or the courts.

How to use this template

  1. 1Check the state return deadline.
  2. 2Confirm your forwarding address.
  3. 3Compare move-in and move-out evidence.
  4. 4Challenge unsupported deductions.
  5. 5Set a payment deadline.

What to include before you send it

  • Check the local return deadline and insert the correct number of days.
  • Attach move-in and move-out photographs and your forwarding-address notice.
  • Separate ordinary wear and tear from actual tenant-caused damage.

The rights you are relying on

Security-deposit deadlines, permitted deductions and penalties differ by state and city. Check the rule for the rental property's location before sending.

The letter template

[Your name]
[Forwarding address]
[Email address] · [Phone number]
[Date]

[Landlord / property manager]
[Address]

Re: Demand for security deposit — [RENTAL ADDRESS]

Dear [Name],

My tenancy at [ADDRESS] ended on [DATE]. I returned possession and the keys on [DATE] and provided my forwarding address on [DATE]. My security deposit was [AMOUNT].

The applicable return deadline has passed, but [I have not received the deposit or an itemized statement / I received only AMOUNT with deductions of AMOUNT]. I dispute [DEDUCTIONS] because [ordinary wear and tear / no supporting invoice / condition shown in photographs / other reason].

Please send [AMOUNT] to [ADDRESS OR AGREED PAYMENT METHOD] within 10 days, together with any itemized statement and supporting invoices required by local law.

If this remains unresolved, I will consider the local housing, attorney-general or small-claims process and any statutory remedies available.

Sincerely,

[Your name]

Enclosures: lease, deposit receipt, condition photographs, key-return and forwarding-address records.

Turn this example into your own formal letter

The £0.59 option creates one formal letter using your names, dates, sums and evidence. The £3.99 Case File also includes an email, evidence checklist, action plan and follow-up notice.

Uses the facts you provide Includes a clear response date
Personalise this letter — £0.59

Or read more about our personalised deposit demand.

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