Suing for Your Security Deposit in Small Claims Court
When a landlord ignores your demand letter, small claims court is the next step. It's fast, affordable, and structured for renters representing themselves.
Before you file
Send a written demand letter via certified mail and give the landlord at least 14 days to respond. Judges expect to see this.
How much you can sue for
The withheld deposit plus, in many states, 2x to 3x damages and attorney/filing fees. Your state's multiplier dramatically affects the math.
The hearing
Bring your lease, photos, demand letter, certified mail receipt, and a one-page timeline. Speak calmly, stick to facts, and let your documentation do the talking.
How it works
1. Tell us what happened
Enter your move-out, deposit, and landlord details in our 7-step guided form.
2. We draft your letter
Your draft cites your state's return deadline and damages multiplier in clear, professional language.
3. Send & follow up
Download as PDF, send certified mail, and escalate to small claims if the landlord ignores your demand.
Frequently asked questions
Ready to send a demand letter?
Generate a state-specific letter in minutes. Free preview, no commitment.
Start my letterThis tool helps you create a draft demand letter based on your information. It does not determine your legal rights, guarantee payment, or replace advice from a licensed attorney. You may wish to consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.