New York City Renters
Get Your Security Deposit Back in New York City
Your New York City landlord has 14 days to return your security deposit after you move out. Know your rights and hold them accountable.
14
Days to return
$3,500
Avg. rent
8.3M
Population
New York City Local Info
NYC has additional tenant protections. Landlords must pay interest on deposits and provide itemized statements. Many rent-stabilized apartments have specific deposit rules.
Local Ordinance
NYC Housing Stability and Tenant Protection Act
Landlord must return deposit within 14 days. Must provide itemized statement with receipts for any deductions.
Penalties: 2x the deposit amount for wrongful withholding. Tenant may also recover attorney fees and interest.
Read the full ordinance →New York City Deposit Rules
Interest Required
Yes
Rate set annually by NYC Banking Commission
Max Deposit
1 months' rent
Return Deadline
14 days
Penalty
2x the deposit amount for wrongful withholding. Tenant may also recover attorney fees and interest.
Get Your Deposit Back in New York City: Step by Step
Confirm the 14-Day Deadline
NYC landlords must return your deposit within 14 days of move-out — one of the strictest timelines in the country. Mark your calendar from your move-out date.
Review Itemized Deductions
If your landlord sent deductions, they must include receipts and a detailed breakdown. Challenge anything that qualifies as normal wear and tear.
Send a Demand Letter
Reference NY General Obligations Law § 7-108 in your demand letter. Note that you're entitled to 2x the deposit for wrongful withholding.
File in NYC Small Claims Court
File at NYC Civil Court. The filing fee is only $15-$20, making it very accessible. Claims up to $10,000 are eligible.
Attend Your Hearing
Bring your lease, deposit receipt, move-out photos, demand letter with certified mail receipt, and any communication from your landlord.
Calculate Your New York City Deadline
Click to select or drag your lease here
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Local Small Claims Court
Court
NYC Civil Court - Small Claims
Address
111 Centre St., New York, NY 10013
Filing Fee
$15-$20
Claims Limit
$10,000
New York Security Deposit Law
Return Deadline
14 days after move-out
Penalty for Late Return
Landlord forfeits the right to keep any portion of your deposit; willful violations can result in punitive damages up to twice the deposit
New York City Security Deposit FAQ
What is the maximum security deposit in NYC?
As of 2019, NYC landlords can only charge a maximum of one month's rent as a security deposit. This applies to all residential rentals.
How long does a NYC landlord have to return my deposit?
14 days from move-out. This is one of the shortest deadlines in the country.
Does my NYC landlord have to pay interest on my deposit?
Yes. NYC landlords must pay interest on security deposits annually, minus a 1% administrative fee.
What if my NYC landlord doesn't provide an itemized statement?
If your landlord fails to provide an itemized statement within 14 days, they may forfeit the right to keep any portion of your deposit.
Where do I file a small claims case for my deposit in NYC?
File at NYC Civil Court Small Claims. Filing fee is $15-$20 for claims up to $10,000. You don't need a lawyer.