Free tool · Florida landlords

Florida Security Deposit Deadline Calculator

Enter the date the tenancy ended and whether you intend to keep any of the deposit. The calculator gives the exact statutory deadlines and their source.

Based on the information entered, here's the applicable general rule and source.

Source: Fla. Stat. § 83.49(3)(a)–(b). The claim notice must go by certified mail to the tenant's last known mailing address, or by e-mail only under a signed electronic-delivery addendum (s. 83.505). Missing the 30-day notice window forfeits the right to deduct from the deposit — the statute then requires returning the deposit, though a separate damages action remains possible.

Prepare the claim notice

The rule in plain English

Florida gives a landlord two mutually exclusive paths when a tenancy ends. Returning the deposit in full: 15 days. Keeping any part of it: written notice of the claim within 30 days, in the wording s. 83.49(3)(a) prescribes, by certified mail (or e-mail only under a signed s. 83.505 addendum). A landlord who misses the 30-day notice window forfeits the right to deduct from the deposit and must return it — a damages lawsuit remains possible, but the deposit itself goes back.

After a proper notice, the tenant has 15 days from receipt to object in writing. If no objection comes, the landlord deducts the claim and returns any balance within 30 days after the date of the notice.

This tool provides general information, not legal advice, and is not a substitute for the advice or services of an attorney. Deadlines can be affected by facts this tool does not ask about.