Alabama Deposit Return Deadline
60 daysUnder Alabama law, an landlord generally has 60 days after move-out to return your security deposit (or provide an itemized statement of deductions) — the FAQ below covers the conditions that can change the deadline.
Educational information: generated from our Alabama law database (last updated 2024-01-01). Not legal advice.
How Alabama compares
51 of 51 US jurisdictions set a statutory deadline for returning security deposits. Here is how Alabama compares with other states in our database.
| State | Deposit Return Deadline |
|---|---|
| Alabama | 60 days |
| Alaska | 14–30 days |
| Arizona | 14 business days |
| Arkansas | 60 days |
| California | 21 days |
Frequently asked questions
- How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Alabama?
- Generally 60 days after move-out. Security deposit limited to one month rent, excluding pet deposits or deposits for alterations. Must be returned within 60 days. Failure to return results in double damages.
- Can an Alabama landlord keep my deposit for damages?
- Landlords may generally deduct for unpaid rent and damage beyond normal wear and tear, but must account for deductions. Deductions for ordinary wear and tear are not allowed.
- What if my Alabama landlord misses the deposit return deadline?
- Missing the statutory deadline (60 days) can expose the landlord to statutory penalties. Security deposit limited to one month rent, excluding pet deposits or deposits for alterations. Must be returned within 60 days. Failure to return results in double damages.
Check Your Lease Against Alabama Law
Not sure whether your lease complies with Alabama law? Upload it and our analyzer flags problem clauses — deposit terms, entry rights, fees and prohibited provisions — using the same statute-backed database this page is generated from.
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More Alabama lease law guides
Educational information generated from state statute data — not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney in Alabama for your specific situation.