Connecticut Deposit return deadline
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Connecticut?
Within 21 days after the tenancy ends, or 15 days after receiving the tenant's written forwarding address, whichever is later. Includes accrued interest and an itemized statement of deductions. Penalty for violations: twice the deposit.
Verified Source: Conn. Gen. Stat. § 47a-21(d) · last checked 2026-10-23
How this works in Connecticut
Connecticut runs two clocks and you go by whichever ends later: 21 days after the tenancy ends, or 15 days after the tenant gives you a written forwarding address. The refund has to include accrued interest, and any deduction needs a written itemized statement.
Worked example for Connecticut
Say a tenancy ends on June 30, 2026, which puts the 21-day mark at July 21, 2026. The tenant doesn't send a forwarding address until July 15, 2026, so the 15-day clock runs to July 30, 2026. That later date is your deadline. If you send the balance on time but leave out the accrued interest, the penalty is $10 or twice the interest, whichever is greater. Other violations can cost twice the deposit.
Connecticut timelines and limits
| Deadline | 21 days after the tenancy ends or 15 days after the written forwarding address, whichever is later |
|---|---|
| What to send | Deposit plus accrued interest, or the balance with an itemized statement of damages |
| Penalty | Twice the deposit; if only the interest was missed, $10 or twice the interest, whichever is greater |
Connecticut FAQ
When is a Connecticut security deposit due back?
Not later than 21 days after the tenancy ends or 15 days after you receive the tenant's written forwarding address, whichever is later.
Do I have to pay interest on the deposit?
Yes. The refund includes accrued interest, under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 47a-21(d).
What is the penalty for getting it wrong?
Twice the deposit. If the only violation is missing interest, it's $10 or twice the interest, whichever is greater.
Sources for this section: Conn. Gen. Stat. § 47a-21(d) (checked 2026-10-23)
Same topic in neighboring states
All Connecticut landlord-tenant law · Connecticut landlord FAQ · Security deposit limit · Notice to enter · Required lease disclosures · Required disclosures (mold, lead, radon, bedbug, asbestos, flood zone) · Move-in checklist
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