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New York security deposit law: deadline, deductions and penalties

Quick answer

In New York, a landlord has 14 days to return the security deposit or send an itemized list of deductions (N.Y. Gen. Oblig. Law § 7-108). Under New York law, a court can award up to twice the deposit on top of actual damages for bad-faith withholding.

Checked against the statute on October 29, 2026.

14

days for a New York landlord to return the deposit or itemize deductions

The deadline

Within 14 days after the tenant vacates, the landlord must provide an itemized statement of any deductions and return the rest of the deposit.

What the landlord must send you

An itemized statement of the basis for any amount retained.

If the landlord misses the deadline

A landlord who fails to provide the itemized statement and deposit within 14 days forfeits any right to retain any portion of the deposit (N.Y. Gen. Oblig. Law § 7-108).

Penalty for wrongful withholding

For a willful violation, a tenant may recover punitive damages of up to twice the amount of the deposit, in addition to actual damages (N.Y. Gen. Oblig. Law § 7-108).

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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New York security deposit FAQ

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

Within 14 days after the tenant vacates, the landlord must provide an itemized statement of any deductions and return the rest of the deposit.

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

An itemized statement of the basis for any amount retained.

What happens if a New York landlord misses the deadline?

A landlord who fails to provide the itemized statement and deposit within 14 days forfeits any right to retain any portion of the deposit (N.Y. Gen. Oblig. Law § 7-108).

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

For a willful violation, a tenant may recover punitive damages of up to twice the amount of the deposit, in addition to actual damages (N.Y. Gen. Oblig. Law § 7-108).

How do I get my security deposit back in New York?

Give your landlord a forwarding address in writing, wait for the 14 days deadline, then send a demand letter by certified mail that cites N.Y. Gen. Oblig. Law § 7-108 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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