Hawaii Security Deposit Law (2026): Deadlines, Interest & Penalties
Under Haw. Rev. Stat. § 521-44, a Hawaii landlord must return a tenant's security deposit within 14 days of move-out and is not required to pay interest on the deposit. Fail to comply, and the tenant may recover 3x wrongfully withheld amount + costs. Plug your lease dates and deposit amount into the calculator above for a statute-based breakdown.
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Hawaii Deposit Rules at a Glance
| Return deadline | 14 days after move-out Standard deadline applies. |
|---|---|
| Interest on deposit | Not required |
| Separate account required | No |
| Deposit limit | 1 month's rent (+ pet deposit allowed) |
| Penalty for violations | 3x wrongfully withheld amount + costs Attorney fees / court costs may also be recoverable |
Hawaii Security Deposit FAQ
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Hawaii?
In Hawaii, a landlord must return the security deposit within 14 days after the tenancy ends, under Haw. Rev. Stat. § 521-44. Note: Standard deadline applies..
Does my landlord owe me interest on my security deposit in Hawaii?
No. Hawaii law does not require landlords to pay interest on residential security deposits.
What is the penalty if a landlord misses the deposit deadline in Hawaii?
3x wrongfully withheld amount + costs. The tenant may also be able to recover attorney fees or court costs. The governing statute is Haw. Rev. Stat. § 521-44.
Is there a limit on how much a landlord can charge as a security deposit in Hawaii?
Yes. In Hawaii, the security deposit is limited to 1 month's rent (+ pet deposit allowed).
Does a Hawaii landlord have to keep my deposit in a separate account?
No. Hawaii law does not require landlords to hold security deposits in a separate or escrow account.
Are there exceptions to the 14-day deposit deadline in Hawaii?
Yes — the deadline can vary: Standard deadline applies.. When in doubt, check the statute itself (Haw. Rev. Stat. § 521-44) or ask a local tenant-rights organization.
What can I do if my landlord won't return my deposit in Hawaii?
First, send a written demand letter citing Haw. Rev. Stat. § 521-44 — 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 wrongfully withheld amount + costs.