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Minnesota Security Deposit Return Deadline
The rule
| Deadline | 3 weeks after move-out and receipt of a forwarding address |
|---|---|
| Maximum deposit | No cap |
| Penalty for wrongful withholding | 2x amount withheld, plus interest |
| Statute | Minn. Stat. § 504B.178 |
Minnesota deadline calculator
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What to send the tenant
Send the remaining deposit, or a written, itemized list of each deduction with its cost (free letter template), to the tenant's forwarding address before the deadline. Keep proof of the date you sent it. Normal wear and tear generally can't be deducted, and a deduction is strongest when your signed move-in report shows the item was in good condition.
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Common questions
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Minnesota?
Under Minn. Stat. § 504B.178, a Minnesota landlord has 21 days to return the deposit or send an itemized statement of deductions. Details: 3 weeks after move-out and receipt of a forwarding address.
What is the maximum security deposit in Minnesota?
Minnesota law sets no maximum security deposit.
What happens if a Minnesota landlord misses the deadline or withholds in bad faith?
The penalty in Minnesota: 2x amount withheld, plus interest. Missing the deadline can also cost the landlord the right to keep any of the deposit.
Last reviewed November 2026. Summary of Minn. Stat. § 504B.178, cross-checked against multiple published sources. General information, not legal advice. Laws change, and cities and counties can add requirements. Read the statute or ask a local attorney before you act.