AZ · TenantClaim
Arizona Security Deposit Return Laws & Calculator
Landlords generally have 14 business days to return a deposit under Arizona Revised Statutes Section 33-1321. Use the calculator to check overdue status and estimated recovery.
Arizona deposit calculator
Statutory math from Arizona Revised Statutes Section 33-1321.
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
A landlord who wrongfully withholds a deposit is liable for twice the amount wrongfully withheld (Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 33-1321). The return window is 14 business days after termination and delivery of possession.
Multiplier: 2x
Wear and tear vs. unlawful deductions
Normal Wear & Tear
Landlord cannot deduct
- Faded or scuffed interior paint from ordinary occupancy in Arizona
- 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 Arizona Revised Statutes Section 33-1321
- Keeping any part of the deposit without sending the required itemized statement within 14 business days
- Deducting for conditions that existed before move-in or that the landlord was obligated to repair
Small claims court filing limits
$3,500
Claims above this Arizona ceiling may need District or Civil Court, or a voluntary reduction to stay in small claims.
View Full Arizona Small Claims Court & Official Form GuideArizona security deposit FAQ
How long does a Arizona landlord have to return my deposit?+
Arizona generally requires return within 14 business days after move-out under Arizona Revised Statutes Section 33-1321. 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?+
A landlord who wrongfully withholds a deposit is liable for twice the amount wrongfully withheld (Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 33-1321). The return window is 14 business days after termination and delivery of possession.
What is the Arizona small claims limit?+
Most tenants can file in small claims court for up to $3,500. 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. Arizona requires an itemized deduction statement. Withholding money without that statement is a common unlawful deduction.