MN · TenantClaim
Minnesota Security Deposit Return Laws & Calculator
Landlords generally have 21 calendar days to return a deposit under Minnesota Statutes Section 504B.178. Use the calculator to check overdue status and estimated recovery.
Minnesota deposit calculator
Statutory math from Minnesota Statutes Section 504B.178.
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 fails to return the deposit or provide a written statement within three weeks (21 days) may be liable for the withheld amount plus a penalty of up to $500 and, in some cases, punitive damages for bad-faith withholding (Minn. Stat. § 504B.178).
Multiplier: 0x + $500
Wear and tear vs. unlawful deductions
Normal Wear & Tear
Landlord cannot deduct
- Faded or scuffed interior paint from ordinary occupancy in Minnesota
- 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 Minnesota Statutes Section 504B.178
- Keeping any part of the deposit without sending the required itemized statement within 21 calendar days
- Deducting for conditions that existed before move-in or that the landlord was obligated to repair
Small claims court filing limits
$15,000
Claims above this Minnesota ceiling may need District or Civil Court, or a voluntary reduction to stay in small claims.
View Full Minnesota Small Claims Court & Official Form GuideMinnesota security deposit FAQ
How long does a Minnesota landlord have to return my deposit?+
Minnesota generally requires return within 21 calendar days after move-out under Minnesota Statutes Section 504B.178. 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 fails to return the deposit or provide a written statement within three weeks (21 days) may be liable for the withheld amount plus a penalty of up to $500 and, in some cases, punitive damages for bad-faith withholding (Minn. Stat. § 504B.178).
What is the Minnesota small claims limit?+
Most tenants can file in small claims court for up to $15,000. 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. Minnesota requires an itemized deduction statement. Withholding money without that statement is a common unlawful deduction.