Alabama generally limits the deposit to one month's rent, with exceptions for pets and elevated risk. Landlord must refund or itemize deductions within 60 days.
Last verified: 2026-10-10
Max deposit
1
months' rent
Return deadline
60
days after tenancy ends
Interest required
No
not required
Separate account
—
statute silent
Maximum Security Deposit
1 month's rent
Exceptions permitted for pets, changes to premises, and increased liability risks.
Return Deadline
60 days
Refund and itemized deductions within 60 days of tenancy end.
Interest on Deposit
Not required
No interest requirement identified in §35-9A-201.
Separate Account Required
Statute silent
Not established from retrieved statute.
⚖️ Permitted Deductions
Past-due rent; repair of tenant-caused damage beyond normal wear.
📋 Official Source
The information on this page is sourced from the primary Alabama statute. Always verify against the current official text before making decisions.
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Alabama?
Alabama law limits security deposits to 1 month's rent. Exceptions permitted for pets, changes to premises, and increased liability risks.
How long does a landlord have to return the security deposit in Alabama?
Alabama landlords must return the security deposit — or provide a written itemized statement of deductions — within 60 days after the tenancy ends. Refund and itemized deductions within 60 days of tenancy end.
Does Alabama require landlords to pay interest on security deposits?
No. Alabama law does not require landlords to pay interest to tenants on security deposits. No interest requirement identified in §35-9A-201.
Must Alabama landlords keep security deposits in a separate bank account?
Alabama's statute does not clearly require a separate account for security deposits. Not established from retrieved statute.
Automate security deposit compliance
Property management software handles deposit tracking, deadline reminders, itemized deduction statements, and compliant separate account requirements automatically — so you never miss a Alabama deadline.
This page is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Security deposit laws change — always verify the current statute or consult a licensed attorney in Alabama before making decisions. Official source: https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/code-of-alabama?section=35-9A-201&title=35. Last reviewed: 2026-10-10.