Georgia Security Deposit Law (2026): Deadlines, Interest & Penalties
Wondering when your Georgia security deposit is due back? The statute — O.C.G.A. § 44-7-34 — sets the return window at 30 days from the end of your tenancy, and the landlord is not required to pay interest on the deposit. If the money doesn't arrive on time, the exposure for the landlord is 3x amount wrongfully withheld + attorney fees (bad faith). The calculator above works out your deadline, interest, and penalty figures automatically.
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Georgia Deposit Rules at a Glance
| Return deadline | 30 days after move-out Standard deadline applies. |
|---|---|
| Interest on deposit | Not required |
| Separate account required | Yes |
| Deposit limit | No limit |
| Penalty for violations | 3x amount wrongfully withheld + attorney fees (bad faith) Attorney fees / court costs may also be recoverable |
Georgia Security Deposit FAQ
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Georgia?
In Georgia, a landlord must return the security deposit within 30 days after the tenancy ends, under O.C.G.A. § 44-7-34. Note: Standard deadline applies..
Does my landlord owe me interest on my security deposit in Georgia?
No. Georgia law does not require landlords to pay interest on residential security deposits.
What is the penalty if a landlord misses the deposit deadline in Georgia?
3x amount wrongfully withheld + attorney fees (bad faith). The tenant may also be able to recover attorney fees or court costs. The governing statute is O.C.G.A. § 44-7-34.
Is there a limit on how much a landlord can charge as a security deposit in Georgia?
Yes. In Georgia, the security deposit is limited to No limit.
Does a Georgia landlord have to keep my deposit in a separate account?
Yes. Georgia law requires landlords to hold security deposits in a separate account, per O.C.G.A. § 44-7-34.
Are there exceptions to the 30-day deposit deadline in Georgia?
Yes — the deadline can vary: Standard deadline applies.. When in doubt, check the statute itself (O.C.G.A. § 44-7-34) or ask a local tenant-rights organization.
What can I do if my landlord won't return my deposit in Georgia?
First, send a written demand letter citing O.C.G.A. § 44-7-34 — 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 3x amount wrongfully withheld + attorney fees (bad faith).