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New York Security Deposit Return Deadline
The rule
| Deadline | 14 days after move-out |
|---|---|
| Maximum deposit | 1 month |
| Penalty for wrongful withholding | Forfeiture; up to 2x deposit if willful |
| Statute | N.Y. Gen. Oblig. Law § 7-108 |
New York also requires the landlord to offer a move-out inspection before the tenant leaves, so the tenant can fix problems first.
New York deadline calculator
Room-by-room condition report: 12 rooms, 99 items, move-in and move-out columns, signature lines, and tips that win deposit disputes. Works for New York rentals. PDF, 5 pages, no sign-up.
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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 New York?
Under N.Y. Gen. Oblig. Law § 7-108, a New York landlord has 14 days to return the deposit or send an itemized statement of deductions. Details: 14 days after move-out.
What is the maximum security deposit in New York?
In New York, the security deposit limit is 1 month.
What happens if a New York landlord misses the deadline or withholds in bad faith?
The penalty in New York: forfeiture; up to 2x deposit if willful. Missing the deadline can also cost the landlord the right to keep any of the deposit.
Last reviewed November 2026. Summary of N.Y. Gen. Oblig. Law § 7-108, 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.