California landlord forms / Security Deposit Return Letter

California Security Deposit Return Letter

$19

An itemized security deposit return letter, timed to your state's statutory deadline — this is the single most litigated moment in a tenancy, and missing the deadline or itemization requirement can cost a landlord the right to keep any of the deposit.

Core state figures — deposit caps, notice periods, entry rules — independently verified by a licensed U.S. attorney.

Start my security deposit return letter — $19

What California law requires

Security deposit cap: 1 month' rent
Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5 (as amended by AB 12) · source
Deposit return deadline: 21 days after move-out
Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5(g)(1) · source
Month-to-month termination notice: 60 days
Cal. Civ. Code § 1946.1 · source
Pay-or-quit notice (late rent): 3 days
Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 1161(2) · source
Landlord entry notice: 1 day
Cal. Civ. Code § 1954(d)(1) · source
Late fee guidance: 6% of monthly rent
Cal. Civ. Code § 1671 · source

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I miss the deadline?

Most states penalize a late or non-itemized return — commonly forfeiting the right to withhold any amount, sometimes with additional statutory damages. Deadlines vary by state; this document is timed to yours.

Do I need to itemize every deduction?

Yes, in virtually every state — a vague "cleaning and repairs" line is not sufficient. List each deduction separately with its own amount.

Need more than one document?

The Complete Landlord Pack includes this document plus 5 more for California, with unlimited edits for 12 months.

See the California pack