Deposit return deadline · Washington
Washington: return the deposit within 30 days
In Washington, a landlord must return a tenant's security deposit — or account for what's being kept — within 30 days after the tenancy ends and the tenant vacates (extended from 21 days by 2023's HB 1074). The rule is RCW 59.18.280.
Deducting? The paperwork rules
A full and specific statement for anything retained, with documentation (estimates, invoices, receipts) attached.
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
Miss the deadline without cause and you're barred from keeping any of the deposit; courts can award the tenant up to twice the deposit for intentional refusal.
The 2023 amendments also tightened what you can charge against a deposit (no ordinary wear and tear, documentation required) — the statement needs receipts behind it now.
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 30-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.