New York Security Deposit Return Deadline
- Penalty for missing it
- 2x (twice the deposit) (willful failure to return — up to 2x the deposit (GOL §7-108(1)(e)))
- The law
- NY Gen. Oblig. Law §7-108
The rule
14 days after the tenant vacates — the shortest standard deadline of any large state (2019 HSTPA reform, GOL §7-108(1)(a)). Landlord must provide an itemized statement of deductions.
- Applies statewide since the 2019 Housing Stability and Tenant Protection Act — including NYC rent-stabilized units.
- Deposit cap: 1 month's rent; must be held in a separate interest-bearing account.
- Landlord must notify the tenant in writing of the bank name and address.
What happens if your landlord misses the deadline
In New York, 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 NY Gen. Oblig. Law §7-108 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 New York
- Confirm the clock ran. Make sure you provided a forwarding address in writing, and that the full deadline has passed.
- Send a demand letter citing NY Gen. Oblig. Law §7-108 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.
New York deposit questions
How long does my New York landlord have to return my deposit?
14 days after the tenant vacates — the shortest standard deadline of any large state (2019 HSTPA reform, GOL §7-108(1)(a)). Landlord must provide an itemized statement of deductions.
What if my landlord never sends an itemized list of deductions?
In most states — including New York — failing to provide the required itemized statement within the deadline forfeits the landlord's right to withhold anything. Check NY Gen. Oblig. Law §7-108 for the exact rule.
Can I get more than my deposit back in New York?
New York law allows 2x (twice the deposit) for willful failure to return — up to 2x the deposit (GOL §7-108(1)(e)). See our penalties guide for how judges apply this.
Verified 2026-10-09 against statute text.