California security deposit law: 21 days to return it, and the penalty
How long a landlord has to return a security deposit in California, what must be sent, and the penalty, read in California Civil Code Section 1950.5.
The deadline
No later than 21 calendar days after you move out, the landlord must send an itemized statement of any deductions and return the rest of the deposit.
The penalty
If the landlord kept the deposit in bad faith, a court may award up to twice the amount of the deposit, in addition to actual damages.
What to do
Send a written demand that cites the law, by certified mail or email, and keep proof. If the landlord does not pay, you can file in small claims court in the county of the rental.
Source: California Civil Code Section 1950.5, read on November 3, 2026.