Deposit return deadline · Wisconsin
Wisconsin: return the deposit within 21 days
In Wisconsin, a landlord must return a tenant's security deposit — or account for what's being kept — within 21 days after the tenant vacates on the lease's end date — if they leave early, 21 days from the termination date or from the day a new tenant moves in, whichever comes first. The rule is Wis. Stat. § 704.28.
Deducting? The paperwork rules
A written statement itemizing every deduction, delivered or mailed with the balance inside the same 21 days. Nothing may be taken for normal wear and tear.
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
Wrongful withholding is an unfair trade practice: the tenant recovers double the amount withheld plus court costs and reasonable attorney's fees (Wis. Stat. § 100.20(5)).
No cap on the deposit amount. Deductions are limited to unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear, unpaid utilities, and other amounts the rental agreement specifically allows.
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 21-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.