Pennsylvania Security Deposit Law (2026): Deadlines, Interest & Penalties
Wondering when your Pennsylvania security deposit is due back? The statute — 68 P.S. § 250.511a-512 — sets the return window at 30 days from the end of your tenancy, and the landlord must pay interest of 1% per year in certain situations (after 2nd year: deposit >$100 must be in escrow; interest owed annually from year 3 (landlord may keep 1% fee)). If the money doesn't arrive on time, the exposure for the landlord is 2x wrongfully withheld amount. The calculator above works out your deadline, interest, and penalty figures automatically.
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Pennsylvania Deposit Rules at a Glance
| Return deadline | 30 days after move-out Standard deadline applies. |
|---|---|
| Interest on deposit | Conditional — 1% per year After 2nd year: deposit >$100 must be in escrow; interest owed annually from year 3 (landlord may keep 1% fee) |
| Separate account required | Yes |
| Deposit limit | 2 months' rent year 1; 1 month after year 1 |
| Penalty for violations | 2x wrongfully withheld amount |
Pennsylvania Security Deposit FAQ
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, a landlord must return the security deposit within 30 days after the tenancy ends, under 68 P.S. § 250.511a-512. Note: Standard deadline applies..
Does my landlord owe me interest on my security deposit in Pennsylvania?
Under 68 P.S. § 250.511a-512, a Pennsylvania landlord must pay interest of 1% per year in certain situations (after 2nd year: deposit >$100 must be in escrow; interest owed annually from year 3 (landlord may keep 1% fee)). Rate details: After 2nd year: deposit >$100 must be in escrow; interest owed annually from year 3 (landlord may keep 1% fee).
What is the penalty if a landlord misses the deposit deadline in Pennsylvania?
2x wrongfully withheld amount. The governing statute is 68 P.S. § 250.511a-512.
Is there a limit on how much a landlord can charge as a security deposit in Pennsylvania?
Yes. In Pennsylvania, the security deposit is limited to 2 months' rent year 1; 1 month after year 1.
Does a Pennsylvania landlord have to keep my deposit in a separate account?
Yes. Pennsylvania law requires landlords to hold security deposits in a separate account, per 68 P.S. § 250.511a-512.
Are there exceptions to the 30-day deposit deadline in Pennsylvania?
Yes — the deadline can vary: Standard deadline applies.. When in doubt, check the statute itself (68 P.S. § 250.511a-512) or ask a local tenant-rights organization.
When does the interest requirement apply in Pennsylvania?
Interest applies under these conditions: After 2nd year: deposit >$100 must be in escrow; interest owed annually from year 3 (landlord may keep 1% fee). See 68 P.S. § 250.511a-512 for the full rule.
What can I do if my landlord won't return my deposit in Pennsylvania?
First, send a written demand letter citing 68 P.S. § 250.511a-512 — 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 2x wrongfully withheld amount.