Updated for 2026

Minnesota Security Deposit Laws & Calculator

Minnesota gives landlords just 21 days to return your security deposit and requires them to pay interest on deposits held during the tenancy. Wrongful withholding can cost landlords 2× the withheld amount plus $500. Use our free calculator to see what you're owed.

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Minnesota Security Deposit — Quick Facts

Return Deadline
21 Days
5 days if building condemned
Maximum Deposit
No State Limit
Penalty for Late Return
2× Withheld + $500
Bad faith penalty
Interest Required
✓ Yes
1% (3% without written lease)
Applicable Law
Minn. Stat. § 504B.178
Interest Requirement: Minnesota landlords must pay 1% simple interest per year on security deposits. If there is no written lease, the rate jumps to 3% per year. This interest accrues from the date the deposit is received and must be returned along with the deposit balance.

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Enter your deposit amount and move-out date to instantly see your landlord's deadline, interest owed, penalties, and total refund.

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Minnesota Security Deposit Law — Explained

The 21-Day Return Deadline

Under Minn. Stat. § 504B.178, Minnesota landlords have 21 days after the tenant vacates to return the security deposit with accrued interest, minus any lawful deductions. If the building has been condemned, the deadline shrinks to just 5 days. The landlord must provide a written itemized statement of any deductions.

Interest on Deposits

Minnesota is one of the states that requires landlords to pay interest on security deposits. The rate is 1% simple interest per year for tenancies with a written lease. If there's no written lease (oral agreement or month-to-month without a written document), the rate increases to 3% per year. Interest accrues from the date the deposit is received and must be paid when the deposit is returned.

What Your Landlord Can Deduct

Minnesota landlords may deduct for unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear, and costs to restore the unit to its original condition (minus normal wear). Normal wear and tear — minor scuffs, faded paint, carpet worn from regular use — cannot be deducted. The landlord must provide a specific itemized list of all deductions.

Penalties for Wrongful Withholding

Minnesota provides strong penalties for landlords who wrongfully withhold deposits. Tenants can recover 2× the amount wrongfully withheld. Additionally, if the court finds the landlord acted in bad faith, the tenant can recover up to $500 in additional damages on top of the double penalty. This combination makes Minnesota one of the better states for tenant deposit protection.

No Deposit Cap

Minnesota does not limit how much a landlord can charge as a security deposit. While 1–2 months' rent is typical, there's no statutory maximum. The interest requirement does provide some natural check on excessive deposits, since the landlord must pay interest on the full amount held.

What to Do If Your Landlord Is Late

  1. 1
    Document everything before you leave Take timestamped photos and video. Keep your lease, move-in checklist, and all communications.
  2. 2
    Provide your forwarding address in writing Email or certified mail creates a clear record and starts the 21-day clock.
  3. 3
    Send a formal demand letter after 21 days Use RenterCalc's demand letter generator citing Minn. Stat. § 504B.178.
  4. 4
    Wait 14 days for a response Give your landlord a reasonable window to respond.
  5. 5
    File in conciliation court Minnesota's conciliation court (small claims) limit is $15,000. You can sue for the deposit plus 2× the wrongfully withheld amount plus up to $500 bad faith damages.

Minnesota Security Deposit FAQ

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Minnesota?
Minnesota landlords have 21 days after the tenant moves out to return the deposit with interest and an itemized statement of deductions. If the building is condemned, the deadline is 5 days.
What is the maximum security deposit in Minnesota?
Minnesota has no state limit on security deposit amounts.
What is the penalty for not returning a security deposit in Minnesota?
Tenants can recover 2× the amount wrongfully withheld plus up to $500 additional damages for bad faith.
Does Minnesota require interest on security deposits?
Yes. 1% simple interest per year with a written lease, or 3% per year without a written lease.
How do I get my security deposit back in Minnesota?
Document the unit, provide your forwarding address, wait 21 days, then send a demand letter. If unresolved, file in conciliation court (limit: $15,000).

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