South Dakota Security Deposit Law (2026): Deadlines, Interest & Penalties
Wondering when your South Dakota security deposit is due back? The statute — S.D. Codified Laws § 43-32-6.1, § 43-32-24 — sets the return window at 14 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 damages; bad faith punitive $200. The calculator above works out your deadline, interest, and penalty figures automatically.
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South Dakota Deposit Rules at a Glance
| Return deadline | 14 days after move-out 14 days for refund/statement; 45 days for itemized accounting if tenant requests |
|---|---|
| Interest on deposit | Not required |
| Separate account required | No |
| Deposit limit | 1 month's rent (higher by agreement for special conditions) |
| Penalty for violations | Damages; bad faith punitive $200 |
South Dakota Security Deposit FAQ
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in South Dakota?
In South Dakota, a landlord must return the security deposit within 14 days after the tenancy ends, under S.D. Codified Laws § 43-32-6.1, § 43-32-24. Note: 14 days for refund/statement; 45 days for itemized accounting if tenant requests.
Does my landlord owe me interest on my security deposit in South Dakota?
No. South Dakota law does not require landlords to pay interest on residential security deposits.
What is the penalty if a landlord misses the deposit deadline in South Dakota?
Damages; bad faith punitive $200. The governing statute is S.D. Codified Laws § 43-32-6.1, § 43-32-24.
Is there a limit on how much a landlord can charge as a security deposit in South Dakota?
Yes. In South Dakota, the security deposit is limited to 1 month's rent (higher by agreement for special conditions).
Does a South Dakota landlord have to keep my deposit in a separate account?
No. South Dakota 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 South Dakota?
Yes — the deadline can vary: 14 days for refund/statement; 45 days for itemized accounting if tenant requests. When in doubt, check the statute itself (S.D. Codified Laws § 43-32-6.1, § 43-32-24) or ask a local tenant-rights organization.
What can I do if my landlord won't return my deposit in South Dakota?
First, send a written demand letter citing S.D. Codified Laws § 43-32-6.1, § 43-32-24 — 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 damages; bad faith punitive $200.