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Connecticut security deposit law: deadline, deductions and penalties

Quick answer

In Connecticut, a landlord has 21 days to return the security deposit or send an itemized list of deductions (Conn. Gen. Stat. § 47a-21). Under Connecticut law, a landlord who wrongfully keeps a deposit can owe up to twice the amount of the deposit.

Checked against the statute on October 29, 2026.

21

days for a Connecticut landlord to return the deposit or itemize deductions

The deadline

The landlord must return the deposit with interest, or give written notice of damages, within 21 days after the tenancy ends, or within 15 days after receiving the tenant's forwarding address in writing, whichever is later.

What the landlord must send you

A written statement itemizing the nature and amount of damages, including unpaid rent or utilities, with the balance plus interest.

Penalty for wrongful withholding

If the landlord misses the deadline, the tenant may recover twice the amount of the security deposit (Conn. Gen. Stat. § 47a-21).

Your forwarding address

Connecticut's 15-day clock runs from the landlord receiving your forwarding address in writing. The letter includes yours; certified mail is recommended.

Read the law

Summary checked against the statute on October 29, 2026. Not legal advice; laws change, so confirm with the source before relying on it.

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Connecticut security deposit FAQ

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Connecticut?

The landlord must return the deposit with interest, or give written notice of damages, within 21 days after the tenancy ends, or within 15 days after receiving the tenant's forwarding address in writing, whichever is later.

What must a Connecticut landlord send when keeping part of the deposit?

A written statement itemizing the nature and amount of damages, including unpaid rent or utilities, with the balance plus interest.

What is the penalty for wrongfully keeping a security deposit in Connecticut?

If the landlord misses the deadline, the tenant may recover twice the amount of the security deposit (Conn. Gen. Stat. § 47a-21).

Do I need to give my Connecticut landlord a forwarding address?

Connecticut's 15-day clock runs from the landlord receiving your forwarding address in writing. The letter includes yours; certified mail is recommended.

How do I get my security deposit back in Connecticut?

Give your landlord a forwarding address in writing, wait for the 21 days deadline, then send a demand letter by certified mail that cites Conn. Gen. Stat. § 47a-21 and sets a payment date. If the landlord still doesn't pay, you can file in small claims court in the county where the rental is located.

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