Florida Security Deposit Law (2026): Deadlines, Interest & Penalties
Florida law gives landlords a hard deadline: the security deposit must be returned within 15 days of move-out, per Fla. Stat. § 83.49. On top of the deposit itself, the landlord is not required to pay interest on the deposit. Landlords who blow the deadline face forfeits right to claim if notice deadline missed. Enter your deposit details above to check your numbers.
Enter Rent Details
Calculation Results
Select your state and fill out the form parameters to calculate interest and deadline penalties.
Florida Deposit Rules at a Glance
| Return deadline | 15 days after move-out 15 days if no claim; 30 days to give notice of claim |
|---|---|
| Interest on deposit | Not required |
| Separate account required | Yes |
| Deposit limit | No limit |
| Penalty for violations | Forfeits right to claim if notice deadline missed |
Florida Security Deposit FAQ
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Florida?
In Florida, a landlord must return the security deposit within 15 days after the tenancy ends, under Fla. Stat. § 83.49. Note: 15 days if no claim; 30 days to give notice of claim.
Does my landlord owe me interest on my security deposit in Florida?
No. Florida law does not require landlords to pay interest on residential security deposits.
What is the penalty if a landlord misses the deposit deadline in Florida?
Forfeits right to claim if notice deadline missed. The governing statute is Fla. Stat. § 83.49.
Is there a limit on how much a landlord can charge as a security deposit in Florida?
Yes. In Florida, the security deposit is limited to No limit.
Does a Florida landlord have to keep my deposit in a separate account?
Yes. Florida law requires landlords to hold security deposits in a separate account, per Fla. Stat. § 83.49.
Are there exceptions to the 15-day deposit deadline in Florida?
Yes — the deadline can vary: 15 days if no claim; 30 days to give notice of claim. When in doubt, check the statute itself (Fla. Stat. § 83.49) or ask a local tenant-rights organization.
What can I do if my landlord won't return my deposit in Florida?
First, send a written demand letter citing Fla. Stat. § 83.49 — our free generator creates one with your amounts filled in. If the landlord still doesn't pay, you can usually file in small claims court, where the penalty exposure is forfeits right to claim if notice deadline missed.