Michigan Security Deposit Return Deadline
- Penalty for missing it
- 2x (twice the deposit) (unlawful retention — tenant can sue in district court for the deposit plus damages of up to 2x the deposit (MCL §554.613(2)))
- The law
- MCL §§554.601–554.616 (penalty at §554.613)
The rule
30 days after termination of occupancy. Landlord must mail an itemized list of damages + check for the balance. If the tenant disputes a deduction, they must respond within 7 days or sue (MCL §554.613).
- Tenant must provide a forwarding address in writing within 4 days of move-out.
- Deposit cap: 1.5 months' rent; must be held in a separate regulated account.
- If the tenant disputes damages, the landlord must start a court action within 45 days of termination.
- 2026 change (Senate Bill 22, signed Sept. 2026): deposits may now be returned electronically; electronic payment must be sent within 10 days of mailing the damage notice.
What happens if your landlord misses the deadline
In Michigan, a missed deadline seriously weakens your landlord's position. Depending on the circumstances, they may forfeit the right to deduct anything at all, owe you the penalty above, or both. The exact consequence depends on MCL §§554.601–554.616 (penalty at §554.613) and whether they provided the required itemized statement. Don't assume the money is gone — a missed deadline is often the strongest fact pattern for getting it back.
Your next steps in Michigan
- Confirm the clock ran. Make sure you provided a forwarding address in writing — in Michigan this step starts the clock, so it matters more than usual, and that the full deadline has passed.
- Send a demand letter citing MCL §§554.601–554.616 (penalty at §554.613) and the 2x (twice the deposit) penalty. Most landlords pay at this stage.
- If they ignore it, file in small claims. See our walkthrough for the process.
Michigan deposit questions
How long does my Michigan landlord have to return my deposit?
30 days after termination of occupancy. Landlord must mail an itemized list of damages + check for the balance. If the tenant disputes a deduction, they must respond within 7 days or sue (MCL §554.613).
What if my landlord never sends an itemized list of deductions?
In most states — including Michigan — failing to provide the required itemized statement within the deadline forfeits the landlord's right to withhold anything. Check MCL §§554.601–554.616 (penalty at §554.613) for the exact rule.
Can I get more than my deposit back in Michigan?
Michigan law allows 2x (twice the deposit) for unlawful retention — tenant can sue in district court for the deposit plus damages of up to 2x the deposit (MCL §554.613(2)). See our penalties guide for how judges apply this.
Source: https://rapideyeinspections.com/blog/security-deposit-return-guide/ · Verified 2026-10-09