California security deposit law

Read from the statute itself on 2026-11-09. Statewide rule; a city or county can add its own.

Maximum deposit: Depends — see the rule
Return deadline: 21 days
Interest: Not required by the statute

Since July 1, 2024 (AB 12): one month's rent, furnished or not; a natural person or small LLC or family trust owning up to 2 rental properties with 4 units in all may take 2 months (not from service members). Return within 21 days. Photos at move-out from April 1, 2025, and at move-in for tenancies from July 1, 2025.

Source: Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5(c)(1), (c)(5), (h)(1) · read on 2026-11-09

Calculate it for your rent

State

Monthly rent ($)

The cap depends on your situation

Return deadline

21 days

No later than 21 days after the tenant moves out: an itemized statement of deductions, with receipts or estimates, plus any remaining deposit.

Interest required

Not required by the statute

Source: Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5(c)(1), (c)(5), (h)(1) · read on 2026-11-09

California: common questions

How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in California?

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in California?

21 days. No later than 21 days after the tenant moves out: an itemized statement of deductions, with receipts or estimates, plus any remaining deposit.

Not legal advice. Confirm with a local landlord-tenant attorney before relying on a figure.

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<p style="font-size:13px;margin:4px 0 0">Free <a href="https://www.proprietio.com/tools/security-deposit-calculator">security deposit calculator by state</a> by Proprietio.</p>