Vermont Deposit return deadline
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Vermont?
Within 14 days after the tenant vacates (60 days for seasonal non-primary rentals). If the landlord misses the deadline, they forfeit the right to withhold; if the failure is willful, they owe double.
Verified Source: 9 V.S.A. § 4461 · last checked 2026-10-15
How this works in Vermont
Vermont has one of the shortest deposit deadlines: 14 days after the tenant vacates. Seasonal rentals that aren't a primary residence get 60 days. Miss the deadline and you lose the right to keep any part of the deposit, and a willful failure costs double.
Worked example for Vermont
Say a year-round tenant vacates on July 31, 2026. The deposit and statement are due by August 14, 2026. If you send nothing by then, you forfeit the right to withhold anything, even for real damage.
Vermont timelines and limits
| Year-round rental | Within 14 days after the tenant vacates |
|---|---|
| Seasonal non-primary rental | Within 60 days |
| Late | Forfeit the right to withhold; double if willful |
Vermont FAQ
How long does a Vermont landlord have to return a deposit?
14 days after the tenant vacates, under 9 V.S.A. § 4461; 60 days for seasonal non-primary rentals.
What if I miss the 14 days?
You forfeit the right to withhold any portion of the deposit.
When is the penalty double?
When the failure to return the deposit is willful.
Sources for this section: 9 V.S.A. § 4461 (checked 2026-10-15)
Same topic in neighboring states
All Vermont landlord-tenant law · Vermont 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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