Vermont Security Deposit Law
Return deadline, statute, and penalties for Vermont renters.
Return deadline
14 days
14 days after the tenant vacates; 60 days for seasonal rentals that aren't a primary residence.
Penalty for late or wrongful withholding
2× the amount wrongfully withheld for willful failure, plus attorney fees
Governing statute
Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 9, § 4461
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Check my Vermont deadlineVermont security deposit questions
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Vermont?
Under Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 9, § 4461, a Vermont landlord generally has 14 days to return the deposit or provide an itemized statement of deductions. 14 days after the tenant vacates; 60 days for seasonal rentals that aren't a primary residence.
What happens if a Vermont landlord returns the deposit late?
2× the amount wrongfully withheld for willful failure, plus attorney fees. Courts usually decide whether a penalty applies, and many states require showing the landlord acted in bad faith.
Can a Vermont 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 Vermont?
Send your landlord a written demand letter that cites Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 9, § 4461, 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 Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 9, § 4461. This page is general information, not legal advice. See our terms of use.