New York Security Deposit Law
Return deadline, statute, and penalties for New York renters.
Return deadline
14 days
Penalty for late or wrongful withholding
Amount owed plus punitive damages up to 2× the deposit for willful violation
A landlord who misses the 14-day itemized statement deadline forfeits the right to keep any portion of the deposit.
Governing statute
N.Y. Gen. Oblig. Law § 7-108
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Check my New York deadlineNew York security deposit questions
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in New York?
Under N.Y. Gen. Oblig. Law § 7-108, a New York landlord generally has 14 days to return the deposit or provide an itemized statement of deductions.
What happens if a New York landlord returns the deposit late?
Amount owed plus punitive damages up to 2× the deposit for willful violation. Courts usually decide whether a penalty applies, and many states require showing the landlord acted in bad faith. A landlord who misses the 14-day itemized statement deadline forfeits the right to keep any portion of the deposit.
Can a New York landlord deduct from my deposit?
Landlords can generally deduct for unpaid rent and damage beyond normal wear and tear, and must explain deductions in writing.
How do I demand my security deposit back in New York?
Send your landlord a written demand letter that cites N.Y. Gen. Oblig. Law § 7-108, states the amount owed, and sets a deadline to pay. Send it by certified mail and keep a copy. If the landlord doesn't pay, the letter is useful evidence in small claims court.
Last reviewed October 21, 2026. Read the official text of N.Y. Gen. Oblig. Law § 7-108. This page is general information, not legal advice. See our terms of use.