How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in California?

In California, the security deposit and an itemized statement of any deductions are generally due within 21 days of the tenant moving out (Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5). Missing the deadline can forfeit the right to withhold and expose the landlord to added damages. Confirm the current statute for your situation.

Is the letter generator free?

Yes — free, no signup. It itemizes deductions, does the refund math, cites the state deadline, and can email the PDF so the timestamp documents timely delivery.

Free tool · No signup · Pre-set for California

California Security Deposit Return Letter

Q: Do deductions have to be itemized?

Yes — in nearly every state a landlord must provide an itemized statement listing each deduction, not a vague lump sum. This generator lists each deduction on its own line with an amount and does the refund math.

In California, the deposit and an itemized statement are generally due within 21 days of the tenant moving out (Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5). Build the letter below — deductions listed line by line, refund math done, and one tap to email it so the timestamp proves you sent it on time.

Start your California letter →

From (you)

Your name *Business (optional)

Email (optional — enables tenant replies)

Tenancy

Tenant *Move-out date

Rental property *Unit / apt (optional)

State (adds the deadline & citation)Tenant's forwarding address (optional)

The money

Security deposit held * $Interest owed $ (optional)

Deductions must be itemized — vague “cleaning/repairs” lump sums are the #1 thing that loses deposit disputes. Normal wear and tear generally can't be deducted.

Deposit held$0.00

Refund to tenant$0.00

How the refund is being sentLetter date

Additional notes (optional)

Free · No signup. Names and amounts stay on your device — we keep only anonymous stats.

The California deadline

California law provides for the deposit's return within 21 days of the tenant moving out — see Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5. Send the itemized statement on or before that deadline. Miss it, or send a vague lump sum instead of an itemized list, and many states let the tenant recover the withheld amount plus additional damages. Emailing or mailing the letter creates a dated record that you met the deadline.

Cites California in the letter

The finished statement references the California return deadline and citation automatically.

Itemized, with the math done

Each deduction on its own line; the refund (or balance owed) is calculated for you.

Proof you sent it on time

Email the letter and the timestamp documents delivery before the California deadline.

Questions

How long does a landlord have to return a deposit in California?

Generally within 21 days of the tenant moving out (Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5), together with an itemized statement of any deductions. Missing the deadline can forfeit the right to withhold. Confirm the current statute for your situation.

Do deductions have to be itemized?

Yes — an itemized statement listing each deduction, not a lump sum. This tool lists each on its own line and does the refund math.

Is it really free?

Yes — free, no signup. It cites the California deadline, itemizes deductions, and can email the PDF so the timestamp documents timely delivery.

Other states: Colorado · Connecticut · Florida · All states

Last reviewed July 2026. This free tool helps you prepare a deposit statement and is not legal advice. Deadlines, interest, and deduction rules vary and change — verify the current California statute (Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5) before you rely on it.