Tennessee Security Deposit Law (2026): Deadlines, Interest & Penalties
If you rented in Tennessee, your landlord has 30 days after you move out to return your security deposit under Tenn. Code § 66-28-301. The landlord is not required to pay interest on the deposit. Miss the deadline or wrongfully withhold funds, and the penalty can be forfeits right to withhold if account rules violated. Use the calculator above to see exactly what you are owed and when it was due.
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Tennessee Deposit Rules at a Glance
| Return deadline | 30 days after move-out Verify - URLTA applies in counties over 75k population; deadline rules differ |
|---|---|
| Interest on deposit | Not required |
| Separate account required | Yes |
| Deposit limit | No limit |
| Penalty for violations | Forfeits right to withhold if account rules violated |
Tennessee Security Deposit FAQ
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, a landlord must return the security deposit within 30 days after the tenancy ends, under Tenn. Code § 66-28-301. Note: Verify - URLTA applies in counties over 75k population; deadline rules differ.
Does my landlord owe me interest on my security deposit in Tennessee?
No. Tennessee law does not require landlords to pay interest on residential security deposits.
What is the penalty if a landlord misses the deposit deadline in Tennessee?
Forfeits right to withhold if account rules violated. The governing statute is Tenn. Code § 66-28-301.
Is there a limit on how much a landlord can charge as a security deposit in Tennessee?
Yes. In Tennessee, the security deposit is limited to No limit.
Does a Tennessee landlord have to keep my deposit in a separate account?
Yes. Tennessee law requires landlords to hold security deposits in a separate account, per Tenn. Code § 66-28-301.
Are there exceptions to the 30-day deposit deadline in Tennessee?
Yes — the deadline can vary: Verify - URLTA applies in counties over 75k population; deadline rules differ. When in doubt, check the statute itself (Tenn. Code § 66-28-301) or ask a local tenant-rights organization.
What can I do if my landlord won't return my deposit in Tennessee?
First, send a written demand letter citing Tenn. Code § 66-28-301 — 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 withhold if account rules violated.