California generally caps deposits at one month. Landlords have 21 days to refund or itemize deductions after move-out. Normal wear and tear cannot be deducted. No interest or separate account required.
Last verified: 2026-10-10
Max deposit
1
months' rent
Return deadline
21
days after tenancy ends
Interest required
No
not required
Separate account
No
Maximum Security Deposit
1 month's rent
General cap; qualifying small landlords may have an exception; prior deposits and service-member treatment require current-law review.
Return Deadline
21 days
After tenant moves out; itemized statement accompanies any partial refund.
Interest on Deposit
Not required
Cal. Civ. Code §1950.5 does not require interest on deposits. Local ordinances may differ.
Separate Account Required
Not required
§1950.5(d) establishes creditor priority but does not require a separate bank account.
⚖️ Permitted Deductions
Cleaning to move-in condition; damage beyond normal wear; qualifying furnishings replacement.
📋 Official Source
The information on this page is sourced from the primary California statute. Always verify against the current official text before making decisions.
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in California?
California law limits security deposits to 1 month's rent. General cap; qualifying small landlords may have an exception; prior deposits and service-member treatment require current-law review.
How long does a landlord have to return the security deposit in California?
California landlords must return the security deposit — or provide a written itemized statement of deductions — within 21 days after the tenancy ends. After tenant moves out; itemized statement accompanies any partial refund.
Does California require landlords to pay interest on security deposits?
No. California law does not require landlords to pay interest to tenants on security deposits. Cal. Civ. Code §1950.5 does not require interest on deposits. Local ordinances may differ.
Must California landlords keep security deposits in a separate bank account?
No. California law does not require a separate bank account for security deposits. §1950.5(d) establishes creditor priority but does not require a separate bank account.
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 California 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 California before making decisions. Official source: https://oag.ca.gov/system/files/media/Know-Your-Rights-Security-Deposits-English.pdf. Last reviewed: 2026-10-10.