AL · TenantClaim
Alabama Security Deposit Return Laws & Calculator
Landlords generally have 60 calendar days to return a deposit under Alabama Code Section 35-9A-201. Use the calculator to check overdue status and estimated recovery.
Alabama deposit calculator
Statutory math from Alabama Code Section 35-9A-201.
Ready to Calculate Your Rights
Enter your lease dates and deposit amounts to instantly evaluate:
- State statutory return deadline & overdue status
- Treble (3x) or double (2x) bad-faith penalty eligibility
- Small claims court limit & demand letter generation
Bad-faith penalties
If the landlord wrongfully withholds a deposit, the tenant may recover actual damages and an amount equal to the deposit under Ala. Code § 35-9A-201. Ordinary wear and tear may not be deducted.
Multiplier: 2x
Wear and tear vs. unlawful deductions
Normal Wear & Tear
Landlord cannot deduct
- Faded or scuffed interior paint from ordinary occupancy in Alabama
- Carpet wear or flattening in high-traffic pathways from normal foot traffic
- Small nail or pin holes from hanging pictures or curtains
Unlawful Deductions
These charges are illegal
- Charging for ordinary wear and tear instead of damage beyond normal use under Alabama Code Section 35-9A-201
- Keeping any part of the deposit without sending the required itemized statement within 60 calendar days
- Deducting for conditions that existed before move-in or that the landlord was obligated to repair
Small claims court filing limits
$6,000
Claims above this Alabama ceiling may need District or Civil Court, or a voluntary reduction to stay in small claims.
View Full Alabama Small Claims Court & Official Form GuideAlabama security deposit FAQ
How long does a Alabama landlord have to return my deposit?+
Alabama generally requires return within 60 calendar days after move-out under Alabama Code Section 35-9A-201. If the deadline falls on a weekend, TenantClaim rolls it to the next Monday.
What happens if the landlord keeps my deposit in bad faith?+
If the landlord wrongfully withholds a deposit, the tenant may recover actual damages and an amount equal to the deposit under Ala. Code § 35-9A-201. Ordinary wear and tear may not be deducted.
What is the Alabama small claims limit?+
Most tenants can file in small claims court for up to $6,000. Larger recoveries may need District or Civil Court, or a voluntary reduction of the claim.
Does the landlord have to send an itemized list?+
Yes. Alabama requires an itemized deduction statement. Withholding money without that statement is a common unlawful deduction.