Phoenix Renters

Get Your Security Deposit Back in Phoenix

Your Phoenix landlord has 14 days to return your security deposit after you move out. Know your rights and hold them accountable.

14

Days to return

$1,600

Avg. rent

1.6M

Population

Phoenix Local Info

Arizona landlords have 14 business days to return deposits — one of the shortest deadlines in the country. They must provide itemized deductions within this window.

Local Ordinance

Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act — A.R.S. § 33-1321

Landlord must return deposit with an itemized list of deductions within 14 business days after termination of tenancy and delivery of possession.

Penalties: 2x the amount wrongfully withheld if landlord fails to comply with the 14-day return requirement (A.R.S. § 33-1321(D)). Tenant must dispute within 60 days.

Read the full ordinance →

Phoenix Deposit Rules

Interest Required

No

Max Deposit

1.5 months' rent

Return Deadline

14 days

Penalty

2x the amount wrongfully withheld if landlord fails to comply with the 14-day return requirement (A.R.S. § 33-1321(D)). Tenant must dispute within 60 days.

Get Your Deposit Back in Phoenix: Step by Step

1

Confirm the 14-Day Deadline Has Passed

Arizona gives landlords only 14 business days to return your deposit with an itemized deduction list. Count carefully from the day you surrendered possession.

2

Send a Written Demand Letter

Reference A.R.S. § 33-1321 and note that failure to return the deposit within 14 business days entitles you to 2x the amount wrongfully withheld. Send via certified mail.

3

Dispute Deductions Within 60 Days

If your landlord sent an itemized list but you disagree, you must dispute within 60 days. After 60 days, the landlord's deductions become final.

4

File in Maricopa County Justice Court

File at the Downtown Phoenix Justice Court. Filing fee is $58 for claims up to $3,500.

Calculate Your Phoenix Deadline

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Local Small Claims Court

Court

Downtown Phoenix Justice Court (Maricopa County)

Address

620 W Jackson St, Phoenix, AZ 85003

Filing Fee

$58

Claims Limit

$3,500

Visit court website →

Arizona Security Deposit Law

Return Deadline

14 days after move-out

Penalty for Late Return

Landlord forfeits the right to keep any part of your deposit — you're owed a full refund

Full Arizona deposit law guide →

Phoenix Security Deposit FAQ

How long does my Phoenix landlord have to return my deposit?

14 business days (excluding weekends and holidays) after you move out. This is one of the shortest deadlines in the country.

What is the maximum security deposit in Phoenix?

Arizona caps security deposits at 1.5 months' rent (A.R.S. § 33-1321(A)).

What penalty does my Phoenix landlord face for wrongfully withholding?

You can recover up to twice the amount wrongfully withheld. You must dispute deductions within 60 days of receiving the itemized list.

Does my Phoenix landlord have to pay interest on my deposit?

No. Arizona does not require landlords to pay interest on security deposits.

Where do I file a small claims case in Phoenix?

File at the Downtown Phoenix Justice Court at 620 W Jackson St. The filing fee is $58 for claims up to $3,500.