Deposit return deadline · New York
New York: return the deposit within 14 days
In New York, a landlord must return a tenant's security deposit — or account for what's being kept — within 14 days after the tenant vacates. The rule is N.Y. General Obligations Law § 7-108 (as amended by the 2019 HSTPA).
Deducting? The paperwork rules
An itemized statement is required with any partial return. If you don't provide the statement and any refund within 14 days, you forfeit the right to keep any portion of the deposit.
The clean way to do this is a written letter with the deduction list and the ledger behind it — the deposit return letter template produces one, and a current rent ledger is the difference between documenting and reconstructing.
What missing the deadline costs
Willful violations can bring punitive damages of up to twice the deposit.
New York also caps the deposit itself at one month's rent and gives tenants the right to a move-out inspection — the 14-day clock is only one piece of the 2019 rules.
Never discover this deadline late
The return clock starts the day the tenancy ends — which means it's knowable weeks in advance. A free RentChime account tracks your lease dates and emails you before deadlines like this one arrive.
Not legal advice. This is a summary for general information, not legal advice. The statute linked above is the authority; cities can add stricter rules, and laws change. If a deposit is disputed, talk to a local attorney.
Common questions
When does the 14-day clock start?
Generally when the tenancy ends and the tenant has moved out. The statute linked above defines the trigger precisely.
Can I deduct for normal wear and tear?
No state allows deductions for ordinary wear and tear — deductions are for damage beyond it, unpaid rent, and other charges the lease and statute allow, itemized in writing.
What if I miss the deadline in good faith?
Penalties generally attach to bad-faith withholding, but missing the deadline can forfeit your right to keep any of the deposit even without bad faith. The safe play is the letter, itemized, on time.