How long does a landlord in Washington, DC have to return your deposit?
Landlords in Washington, DC, have 45 days after your tenancy ends to return your deposit with interest, or to tell you in writing that they’re keeping some of it. They then have 30 days from that notice to return the rest, with an itemized list.
Choose your state to see your landlord’s deadline.
’s deadline
If you haven’t had your deposit back, or a list of what was kept, ask for it in writing and keep a copy.
No set number of days
Source: , checked October 14, 2026. Some cities and counties add rules of their own.
Write a letter asking for it, citing your state’s law.
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Other states
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
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Questions
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Washington, DC?
Landlords in Washington, DC, have 45 days after your tenancy ends to return your deposit with interest, or to tell you in writing that they’re keeping some of it. They then have 30 days from that notice to return the rest, with an itemized list.
What if my landlord in Washington, DC misses the deadline?
Ask for your deposit in writing, mention the law (D.C. Code § 42-3502.17; 14 DCMR § 309), and keep a copy. In many states a landlord who misses the deadline loses the right to keep any of it, and some owe a penalty on top. Washington, DC’s law says what applies there; a local legal aid office can help if you’re stuck.
Do I need to give my landlord a forwarding address in Washington, DC?
It’s a good idea. Give it in writing when you move out: it’s where your deposit and any list of deductions get mailed.
Sources
Last checked October 14, 2026.
This is general information, not legal advice. Laws change, and your lease, city or county can add rules of their own. For advice about your situation, talk to a lawyer or a local legal aid office.