Wisconsin generally uses a 21-day return period. Interest is required on deposits (Wis. Stat. §704.28). No separate account required if landlord posts a qualifying surety bond.
Last verified: 2026-10-10
Max deposit
—
no statutory cap
Return deadline
21
days after tenancy ends
Interest required
Yes
paid to tenant
Separate account
No
Maximum Security Deposit
No statutory maximum
Cap not established in retrieved agency guidance.
Return Deadline
21 days
Ordinary lease-end departure: 21 days. Early departure: lease end or new tenant occupancy, whichever first.
Interest on Deposit
Required
Wis. Stat. §704.28 requires interest on deposits; full rate and conditions need verification.
Separate Account Required
Not required
Commingling permitted with a qualifying surety bond per Wis. Stat. §704.28 / ATCP 134.06.
⚖️ Permitted Deductions
Qualifying damage, waste, neglect; complete statutory and nonstandard-provision list needs review.
📋 Official Source
The information on this page is sourced from the primary Wisconsin statute. Always verify against the current official text before making decisions.
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin does not set a statutory maximum for security deposits. Landlords and tenants may agree to any amount in the lease. Cap not established in retrieved agency guidance.
How long does a landlord have to return the security deposit in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin landlords must return the security deposit — or provide a written itemized statement of deductions — within 21 days after the tenancy ends. Ordinary lease-end departure: 21 days. Early departure: lease end or new tenant occupancy, whichever first.
Does Wisconsin require landlords to pay interest on security deposits?
Yes. Wisconsin requires landlords to pay interest on security deposits. Wis. Stat. §704.28 requires interest on deposits; full rate and conditions need verification.
Must Wisconsin landlords keep security deposits in a separate bank account?
No. Wisconsin law does not require a separate bank account for security deposits. Commingling permitted with a qualifying surety bond per Wis. Stat. §704.28 / ATCP 134.06.
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 Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin before making decisions. Official source: https://datcp.wi.gov/Documents/LT-LandlordTenantGuide497.pdf. Last reviewed: 2026-10-10.