Updated for 2026

Rhode Island Security Deposit Laws & Calculator

Rhode Island gives landlords just 20 days to return your security deposit. The deposit is capped at 1 month's rent, and wrongful withholding carries a 2x penalty plus attorney fees — giving tenants solid protection.

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Rhode Island Security Deposit — Quick Facts

Return Deadline
20 Days
Maximum Deposit
1 Month's Rent
Penalty for Late Return
2× Wrongfully Withheld
+ attorney fees
Interest Required
✗ No
Applicable Law
R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18-19

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Enter your deposit amount and move-out date to see your landlord's deadline and total refund.

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Rhode Island Security Deposit Law — Explained

The 20-Day Return Deadline

Under R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18-19, Rhode Island landlords must return the security deposit within 20 days after the tenancy ends and the tenant has vacated the unit. The landlord must provide an itemized statement of any deductions along with the remaining balance. This is one of the shorter deadlines in the Northeast.

What Your Landlord Can Deduct

Rhode Island landlords may deduct for unpaid rent and damage beyond normal wear and tear. Normal wear and tear — minor scuffs, faded paint, carpet worn from regular use — cannot be charged to the tenant. The landlord must provide a written, itemized list of all deductions within the 20-day window.

The 2x Penalty

If a landlord wrongfully withholds any portion of the security deposit, the tenant can recover up to 2 times the amount wrongfully withheld, plus reasonable attorney fees. This penalty provides meaningful leverage for tenants — but you need documentation and a proper demand to enforce it.

Deposit Cap: 1 Month's Rent

Rhode Island caps security deposits at 1 month's rent. If your landlord collected more than this, you may be entitled to a refund of the excess amount. Keep your lease and payment records to verify the amount collected.

What to Do If Your Landlord Won't Return Your Deposit

  1. 1
    Document everything before you leave Take timestamped photos and video of every room. Keep your lease and all communications.
  2. 2
    Send a written demand Use RenterCalc's demand letter generator citing R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18-19. Send via certified mail.
  3. 3
    Wait for the 20-day deadline to pass Give your landlord the full statutory period to respond.
  4. 4
    File in small claims court Rhode Island's small claims limit is $5,000. You can sue for up to 2x the amount wrongfully withheld plus attorney fees.

Rhode Island Security Deposit FAQ

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island landlords must return the deposit within 20 days after the tenancy ends.
What is the maximum security deposit in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island caps security deposits at 1 month's rent.
What is the penalty for not returning a security deposit in Rhode Island?
Tenants can recover 2x the amount wrongfully withheld plus attorney fees.
Does Rhode Island require interest on security deposits?
No. Rhode Island does not require landlords to pay interest on security deposits.
How do I get my security deposit back in Rhode Island?
Document the unit at move-out, send a written demand citing R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18-19, and file in small claims court (limit: $5,000) if unresolved.

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