WI · TenantClaim
Wisconsin Security Deposit Return Laws & Calculator
Landlords generally have 21 calendar days to return a deposit under Wisconsin Statutes Section 704.28. Use the calculator to check overdue status and estimated recovery.
Wisconsin deposit calculator
Statutory math from Wisconsin Statutes Section 704.28.
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 an itemized statement within 21 days may be liable for twice the amount of the deposit plus attorney's fees in some actions (Wis. Stat. § 704.28; Wis. Admin. Code ATCP § 134.06).
Multiplier: 2x
Wear and tear vs. unlawful deductions
Normal Wear & Tear
Landlord cannot deduct
- Faded or scuffed interior paint from ordinary occupancy in Wisconsin
- 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 Wisconsin Statutes Section 704.28
- 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
$10,000
Claims above this Wisconsin ceiling may need District or Civil Court, or a voluntary reduction to stay in small claims.
View Full Wisconsin Small Claims Court & Official Form GuideWisconsin security deposit FAQ
How long does a Wisconsin landlord have to return my deposit?+
Wisconsin generally requires return within 21 calendar days after move-out under Wisconsin Statutes Section 704.28. 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 an itemized statement within 21 days may be liable for twice the amount of the deposit plus attorney's fees in some actions (Wis. Stat. § 704.28; Wis. Admin. Code ATCP § 134.06).
What is the Wisconsin small claims limit?+
Most tenants can file in small claims court for up to $10,000. 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. Wisconsin requires an itemized deduction statement. Withholding money without that statement is a common unlawful deduction.