How to Use the Security Deposit Return Delay Calculator
When a landlord doesn't return a security deposit on time, tenants may be entitled to more than just the deposit back — but exactly what depends heavily on state law. Some states require interest on held deposits, others impose penalty damages for bad-faith withholding, and some have no specific remedy at all. Enter your deposit, days late, and a representative method to see an estimate.
Under a statutory interest approach (used, for example, in New York for buildings with six or more units), landlords owe a modest annual interest rate — often around 1% — on the deposit for as long as they hold it. This calculator prorates that rate by the number of days late.
Under a bad-faith penalty approach (used, for example, in California), a landlord who withholds a deposit without a valid reason can be liable for penalty damages — sometimes up to twice the deposit — on top of returning the deposit itself. Because rules, deadlines, and multipliers vary so much by state and even by city, treat these figures as illustrative and check your local statute or a tenant rights organization for the exact rule that applies to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Only some states and cities (for example New York, for buildings with 6+ units) require landlords to pay interest on held deposits. Many other states have no interest requirement at all, so always check your specific state and local ordinance.
Several states allow tenants to sue for penalty damages — sometimes up to 2-3x the deposit amount — when a landlord withholds or fails to return a deposit in bad faith, separate from any interest owed. Rules and multipliers vary widely by state.