Security Deposit Laws in Connecticut
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Connecticut?
Under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 47a-21, a landlord in Connecticut has 30 days after you move out to either return your full security deposit or provide an itemized statement of deductions along with any remaining balance.
Important Connecticut-specific details
Return deadline is 30 days after tenancy ends OR 15 days after landlord receives the tenant's written forwarding address, whichever is later. Deposit must be held in an escrow account at a Connecticut financial institution — commingling is illegal. Max deposit is 1 month's rent for tenants age 62 or older (even if older age is reached during tenancy).
What happens if the landlord misses the deadline in Connecticut?
Missing the deadline has real consequences for landlords in Connecticut. Under the statute, the penalty is: Tenant may recover 2x (double) the amount wrongfully withheld plus accrued interest and attorney's fees.
In practice, this means if your landlord doesn't return the deposit (or a proper itemized statement) within 30 days, you likely have a strong case in small claims court.
What can the landlord legally deduct from your deposit in Connecticut?
Connecticut law generally allows landlords to deduct for:
- Unpaid rent
- Damage to the unit beyond normal wear and tear — holes in walls, broken fixtures, stains, pet damage
- Cleaning costs, if the unit is left noticeably dirtier than at move-in
- Breach-of-lease costs, such as early termination fees where legally permitted
Landlords cannot deduct for normal wear and tear — faded paint, worn carpet from regular use, minor scuffs, or small nail holes from hanging pictures.
Calculator: check your deposit situation
Enter your move-out date and deposit amount below to see exactly when your landlord's deadline is — and whether they've already missed it.
Security Deposit Return Calculator
Find out when your landlord must return your deposit and what they're legally allowed to deduct.
What to do if your landlord won't return your deposit in Connecticut
- Send a demand letter by certified mail. Cite Conn. Gen. Stat. § 47a-21 and the amount owed. Keep a copy and the delivery receipt.
- Give the landlord a reasonable response window — typically 7 to 14 days after the demand letter.
- File in small claims court. In most states you can sue for up to $5,000–$10,000 without a lawyer. Filing fees are usually $30–$75 and often recoverable as costs.
- Bring evidence. Lease, move-in and move-out photos, the demand letter, proof of delivery, and any communications with the landlord.
For a complete walkthrough, see our guide: What to Do If Your Landlord Won't Return Your Security Deposit.
Connecticut Security Deposit FAQ
- How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Connecticut?
- In Connecticut, landlords must return the security deposit within 30 days of the tenant moving out, per Conn. Gen. Stat. § 47a-21. They must either return the full deposit or provide an itemized statement of any deductions.
- What is the maximum security deposit a landlord can charge in Connecticut?
- In Connecticut, the maximum security deposit is 2 months of rent under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 47a-21.
- What happens if my landlord doesn't return my deposit on time in Connecticut?
- In Connecticut, the penalty for wrongfully withholding a security deposit is: Tenant may recover 2x (double) the amount wrongfully withheld plus accrued interest and attorney's fees. You can sue in small claims court to recover the deposit plus the statutory penalty.
- Does my landlord in Connecticut have to pay interest on my security deposit?
- Yes. Connecticut requires landlords to pay interest on security deposits. Landlord must pay annual interest at the rate set each year by the CT Banking Commissioner (rates published at portal.ct.gov). Interest must be paid annually on the tenancy anniversary or credited toward rent. Forfeited if tenant is more than 10 days late on rent in a given month (unless a late fee was imposed).
- Does my landlord have to itemize deductions from my deposit in Connecticut?
- Yes. Connecticut law requires landlords to provide an itemized statement of any deductions made from your security deposit.