Florida Deposit return deadline
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Florida?
Return within 15 days if the landlord makes no claim. Otherwise, written notice of the claim within 30 days, sent by certified mail or email.
Verified Source: Fla. Stat. § 83.49(3)(a) · last checked 2026-10-28
How this works in Florida
Florida requires you to return the security deposit, together with interest if otherwise required, within 15 days after the rental agreement ends if you make no claim. If you impose a claim, you must send written notice of the claim within 30 days, by certified mail or email.
Worked example for Florida
Example: A tenant vacates and the rental agreement ends on April 30, 2026. If you make no claim, the deposit, together with interest if otherwise required, is due within 15 days, by May 15, 2026. If you impose a claim, written notice of the claim is due within 30 days, by May 30, 2026, sent by certified mail or email.
Florida timelines and limits
| If you make no claim | Return the deposit, together with interest if otherwise required, within 15 days after the rental agreement ends |
|---|---|
| If you impose a claim | Written notice of the claim within 30 days, sent by certified mail or email |
Florida FAQ
How long does a Florida landlord have to return a deposit if there is no claim?
Within 15 days after the termination of the rental agreement, together with interest if otherwise required, under Fla. Stat. § 83.49(3)(a).
What if I impose a claim on the deposit?
Send written notice of the claim within 30 days, by certified mail or email.
Does the 15-day return include interest?
The deposit is returned together with interest if otherwise required.
Sources for this section: Fla. Stat. § 83.49(3)(a) (checked 2026-10-28)
Same topic in neighboring states
All Florida landlord-tenant law · Florida 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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