It's been 30 days. Still no deposit.

Q: What happens if they miss it?

In Massachusetts, no itemized list in 30 days means they can't keep any of it, and they can owe three times the amount. In Pennsylvania, no list in 30 days forfeits the right to keep any of it, and they can owe double. In Washington, a late or missing statement means they owe the full deposit.

Q: When does the clock start?

Usually when you move out or the lease ends. In Connecticut, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota and Texas, giving your new address in writing matters. In Arizona, Kansas, Oklahoma and South Carolina, the clock waits until you ask for the deposit.

Q: What should I do now?

Find your exact deadline, send one letter with your move-out date, new address, the missed deadline and a pay-by date, and if they still don't pay, consider small claims court.

If your state gives landlords 30 days, they're late. In Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Washington, missing the deadline means they can lose the right to keep any of it, and some states add double or triple. But not every state is 30 days, so check yours.

Which states give landlords 30 days?

Iowa, Massachusetts, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Texas, Utah and Washington. Colorado is 30 days unless your lease allows more, up to 60.

Which states have different deadlines?

Shorter: Hawaii, Nebraska, New York and Vermont 14; Delaware and Rhode Island 20; California, Minnesota, South Dakota and Wisconsin 21 days.

Longer: Oregon 31; Indiana and Maryland 45; Alabama 60 days.

It depends on the details in Alaska, Connecticut, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan, Montana, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington, DC, West Virginia and Wyoming. Tap your state for the exact rule.

What happens if they miss it?

Massachusetts: no itemized list in time means they can't keep any of it, and keeping it late can cost three times the amount. (ch. 186, § 15B(6))
Pennsylvania: no list in 30 days means they forfeit the right to keep any of it, and they can owe double. (68 P.S. § 250.512)
Washington: a late or missing statement means they owe the full deposit. (RCW 59.18.280(2))

When does the clock start?

Usually when you move out or your lease ends. In Connecticut, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota and Texas, your new address in writing matters, so send it today by email and mail. In Arizona, Kansas, Oklahoma and South Carolina, the clock waits until you ask for your deposit.

What should I do now?

Find your exact date. It depends on your state and the day you moved out.
Send one letter: your move-out date, your address, the deadline they missed and a date to pay by.
Still nothing? Small claims court is cheap, and you don't need a lawyer.

Check my case

Last updated October 19, 2026. Checked against each state's official law. General information, not legal advice.