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How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Maryland?
Short answer
At a glance: 45 days
Return deposit plus interest within 45 days; itemized damages list by first-class mail
Deadline: Within 45 days after move-out
Within 45 days after the tenancy ends, return the deposit with accrued simple interest, less damages rightfully withheld; if withholding any amount, mail an itemized list of damages and costs within the same 45 days.
"Within 45 days after the end of the tenancy, the landlord shall return the security deposit to the tenant together with simple interest which has accrued at the daily U.S. Treasury yield curve rate for 1 year, as of the first business day of each year, or 1.5% a year, whichever is greater," mgaleg.maryland.gov
"within 45 days after the termination of the tenancy, a written list of the damages claimed under subsection (f)(1) of this section together with an itemized statement of the cost incurred." mgaleg.maryland.gov
Return deposit plus interest within 45 days; itemized damages list by first-class mail Verified
Deadline: Within 45 days after move-out
Within 45 days after the tenancy ends, return the deposit with accrued simple interest, less damages rightfully withheld; if withholding any amount, mail an itemized list of damages and costs within the same 45 days.
Who it covers: Interest due only on deposits of $50 or more; simple interest at the greater of the 1-year Treasury yield-curve rate (first business day of each year) or 1.5%/yr.
"Within 45 days after the end of the tenancy, the landlord shall return the security deposit to the tenant together with simple interest which has accrued at the daily U.S. Treasury yield curve rate for 1 year, as of the first business day of each year, or 1.5% a year, whichever is greater," mgaleg.maryland.gov
"within 45 days after the termination of the tenancy, a written list of the damages claimed under subsection (f)(1) of this section together with an itemized statement of the cost incurred." mgaleg.maryland.gov
Notes: §8-203(e),(g). Up to 3x withheld amount plus attorney's fees for unreasonable withholding. DHCD publishes the yearly rates/calculator.
Last verified 2026-10-20 · Confidence: high · Status: verified · Report a correction