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Vermont security deposit law: deadline, deductions and penalties

Quick answer

In Vermont, a landlord has 14 days to return the security deposit or send an itemized list of deductions (9 V.S.A. § 4461). Under Vermont law, a landlord who wrongfully keeps a deposit can owe up to twice the amount withheld.

Checked against the statute on October 29, 2026.

14

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

The deadline

Within 14 days after the tenant moves out, the landlord must return the deposit with a written, itemized statement of any deductions, by hand or by mail to the tenant's last known address.

What the landlord must send you

A written, itemized statement of deductions sent with the balance.

If the landlord misses the deadline

A landlord who misses the deadline can't keep any part of the deposit (9 V.S.A. § 4461).

Penalty for wrongful withholding

If the landlord willfully misses the deadline, the tenant may recover twice the amount wrongfully withheld, plus attorney's fees and costs (9 V.S.A. § 4461).

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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Did the landlord send you a written, itemized list of deductions?

Vermont security deposit FAQ

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

Within 14 days after the tenant moves out, the landlord must return the deposit with a written, itemized statement of any deductions, by hand or by mail to the tenant's last known address.

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

A written, itemized statement of deductions sent with the balance.

What happens if a Vermont landlord misses the deadline?

A landlord who misses the deadline can't keep any part of the deposit (9 V.S.A. § 4461).

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

If the landlord willfully misses the deadline, the tenant may recover twice the amount wrongfully withheld, plus attorney's fees and costs (9 V.S.A. § 4461).

How do I get my security deposit back in Vermont?

Give your landlord a forwarding address in writing, wait for the 14 days deadline, then send a demand letter by certified mail that cites 9 V.S.A. § 4461 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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