Connecticut Security Deposit Law: Deadlines & Penalties
Connecticut landlords must return the security deposit, plus accrued interest, no later than 21 days after the tenancy ends or 15 days after receiving the tenant's forwarding address in writing, whichever is later. The 21-day period took effect in 2023, replacing the earlier 30-day rule. Deductions are limited to damages caused by the tenant's failure to meet their obligations, such as unpaid rent or damage beyond normal wear and tear.
Anything withheld must be explained in a written statement itemizing the nature and amount of each deduction, sent to the forwarding address. Because the deadline runs from the later of the two dates, it's important to give the landlord your forwarding address in writing. Deposits are capped at two months' rent, or one month's rent for tenants aged 62 or older.
Landlords must hold deposits in an escrow account and pay interest every year at no less than the state's deposit index rate. A landlord who violates the return rules can be liable for twice the amount of the security deposit, or for $10 or twice the interest owed, whichever is greater, if the only problem is unpaid interest. A doubled deposit claim can be heard in small claims court even if it exceeds the usual $5,000 limit.
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Connecticut: common questions
How long does a Connecticut landlord have to return a deposit?
21 days after the tenancy ends, or 15 days after receiving your forwarding address in writing, whichever is later. The deposit must come back with accrued interest, or with an itemized statement explaining every deduction.
Do Connecticut landlords pay interest on security deposits?
Yes. Landlords must pay interest each year at no less than the deposit index rate set under state law. Interest is paid or credited on the anniversary of the tenancy, and any accrued interest is due with the deposit at move-out.
What can I recover if my Connecticut landlord breaks the deposit rules?
A landlord who violates the return requirements can be liable for twice the amount of the security deposit. If the only violation is failing to pay accrued interest, the penalty is $10 or twice the interest, whichever is greater.
What is the small claims limit for a Connecticut deposit case?
The general small claims limit is $5,000, but when a tenant sues in small claims to get a deposit back, the court may award double damages and costs even when the total is higher than that limit.
Compare nearby states
| State | Return deadline | Itemized list | Small claims limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Connecticut | 21 days | Required | $5,000 (deposit claims may exceed this when doubled) |
| Massachusetts | 30 days | Required | $7,000 |
| New York | 14 days | Required | $10,000 in New York City ($5,000 in most other city courts) |
| Rhode Island | 20 days | Required | $5,000 |
| Alabama | 60 days | Required | $6,000 |
| Alaska | See statute | Required | $10,000 |
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