KY · TenantClaim
Kentucky Security Deposit Return Laws & Calculator
Landlords generally have 30 calendar days to return a deposit under Kentucky Revised Statutes Section 383.580. Use the calculator to check overdue status and estimated recovery.
Kentucky deposit calculator
Statutory math from Kentucky Revised Statutes Section 383.580.
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
Kentucky URLTA jurisdictions require return or itemization within 30 days (Ky. Rev. Stat. § 383.580). There is no statewide 2x/3x statutory multiplier; the tenant may recover the amount wrongfully withheld plus costs in a civil action.
Multiplier: 0x
Wear and tear vs. unlawful deductions
Normal Wear & Tear
Landlord cannot deduct
- Faded or scuffed interior paint from ordinary occupancy in Kentucky
- 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 Kentucky Revised Statutes Section 383.580
- Keeping any part of the deposit without sending the required itemized statement within 30 calendar days
- Deducting for conditions that existed before move-in or that the landlord was obligated to repair
Small claims court filing limits
$2,500
Claims above this Kentucky ceiling may need District or Civil Court, or a voluntary reduction to stay in small claims.
View Full Kentucky Small Claims Court & Official Form GuideKentucky security deposit FAQ
How long does a Kentucky landlord have to return my deposit?+
Kentucky generally requires return within 30 calendar days after move-out under Kentucky Revised Statutes Section 383.580. 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?+
Kentucky URLTA jurisdictions require return or itemization within 30 days (Ky. Rev. Stat. § 383.580). There is no statewide 2x/3x statutory multiplier; the tenant may recover the amount wrongfully withheld plus costs in a civil action.
What is the Kentucky small claims limit?+
Most tenants can file in small claims court for up to $2,500. 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. Kentucky requires an itemized deduction statement. Withholding money without that statement is a common unlawful deduction.