Landlord Kept Your Deposit? Send a Demand Letter That Gets Taken Seriously
Answer a few questions about your move-out and get a firm, polite demand letter built around your state's security deposit rules, plus a step-by-step guide to small claims court if the landlord still won't pay.
$13.30 with early access (30% off). No payment today.
Sound familiar?
- You moved out weeks ago, left the place clean, and your deposit still hasn't come back.
- The landlord sent a list of deductions that looks made up, or no list at all.
- You've texted and called, and you keep getting "I'll look into it."
- You don't know how long your landlord is allowed to wait, or what happens if they miss the deadline.
- Hiring a lawyer over a deposit feels like it would cost more than the deposit itself.
What you get
- A short questionnaire. Your state, move-out date, deposit amount, forwarding address, what the landlord sent you (if anything) and which deductions you dispute. Takes about ten minutes.
- A demand letter based on your state's rules. It points to your state's security deposit law, the deadline your landlord had to return the deposit or send an itemized list of deductions, and what you're asking for by when.
- Penalties, mentioned where they apply. In some states, a landlord who wrongfully keeps a deposit can owe more than the deposit itself, in some cases up to two or three times the amount. If your state has a rule like that, the letter says so plainly, without empty threats.
- Wear and tear vs. damage. A plain-English checklist to sort fair deductions from ones you can push back on, such as normal wear and tear, routine cleaning or old paint.
- Evidence checklist. Which photos, texts, receipts and lease pages to gather, and how to attach them to your letter.
- Sending it the right way. How to send the letter so you can prove it arrived, and how to keep a record of every contact.
- Small claims court guide. If the landlord doesn't respond, how to file in small claims court in your state: where to look up the dollar limit and filing fee, what to bring, how to serve the landlord and what to say at the hearing.
- Follow-up letter. A shorter second letter for when the deadline in your first one has passed.
You can edit every sentence before you send it. The letter is yours to download and print.
Who it's for
- Renters in the U.S. whose landlord hasn't returned their security deposit, or kept more than seems fair
- Students and young renters dealing with a deposit dispute for the first time
- Anyone who wants to try a clear written demand before going to court
Who it's not for
- Disputes over unpaid rent, evictions or large damage claims against you. Those need a tenant attorney or a local legal aid office.
- Renters outside the United States.
Price
$13.30early-access price, 30% offLaunch price $19
One-time payment at launch. No payment today.
FAQ
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit?
It depends on your state. Most states set a deadline after move-out for returning the deposit or sending an itemized list of deductions, and the deadlines differ from state to state. The letter is built around the rule for the state you choose.
Can I really get more than my deposit back?
Sometimes. Some states let tenants recover a penalty, in some cases up to two or three times the amount wrongfully withheld, especially when the landlord acted in bad faith or ignored the rules. Others don't. The tool tells you in general terms what your state's law says so you can check it.
Do I need a lawyer?
Not usually for a demand letter, and small claims court is designed for people who represent themselves. For complicated disputes, a tenant attorney or legal aid office can help.
What if my landlord ignores the letter?
Then you have a written record that you asked. The small claims guide walks you through the next step.
What happens when I reserve?
You leave your email. At launch you get early access at 30% off. No payment today.
Disclaimer
Educational information only, not legal advice. Even Keel Studio is not a law firm, does not provide legal representation and is not affiliated with any court or government agency. Security deposit and small claims rules vary by state and change over time; check your state's current law or consult a licensed attorney about your situation.