Updated for 2026

Utah Security Deposit Laws & Calculator

Utah gives landlords 30 days to return your security deposit. There's no state cap on deposit amounts, but if your landlord misses the deadline, you can recover the full deposit plus a $100 penalty. Documentation and a timely demand letter are your best tools.

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Utah Security Deposit — Quick Facts

Return Deadline
30 Days
Maximum Deposit
No State Limit
Penalty for Late Return
Full Deposit + $100
Interest Required
✗ No
Applicable Law
Utah Code § 57-17-3

Calculate Your Utah Deposit Refund

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

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Utah Security Deposit Law — Explained

The 30-Day Return Rule

Under Utah Code § 57-17-3, landlords must return the security deposit — or provide a written itemized list of deductions — within 30 days after the renter moves out and delivers a forwarding address. The clock starts when both conditions are met, so always provide your new address in writing.

What Your Landlord Can Deduct

Utah landlords may deduct for unpaid rent, cleaning costs to restore the unit to its original condition, 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 an itemized statement of all deductions.

The $100 Penalty

If a landlord fails to return the deposit or provide an itemized list within 30 days, the tenant can recover the entire deposit amount plus a $100 penalty. While this isn't as aggressive as the 2x or 3x multipliers in other states, it still provides meaningful leverage — especially when combined with a well-documented demand letter.

No Deposit Cap

Utah does not limit how much a landlord can charge as a security deposit. This means deposits can be significant, making it even more important to document the unit's condition at move-in and move-out to protect your right to a full refund.

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
    Provide your forwarding address in writing The 30-day clock doesn't start until your landlord has your new address. Send it via certified mail or email with a read receipt.
  3. 3
    Wait 30 days, then send a demand letter Use RenterCalc's demand letter generator citing Utah Code § 57-17-3. Send via certified mail.
  4. 4
    File in small claims court Utah's small claims limit is $11,000. You can sue for the full deposit plus the $100 penalty.

Utah Security Deposit FAQ

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Utah?
Utah landlords must return the deposit within 30 days after the tenant moves out and provides a forwarding address.
What is the maximum security deposit in Utah?
Utah has no state limit on security deposit amounts.
What is the penalty for not returning a security deposit in Utah?
Tenants can recover the full deposit amount plus a $100 penalty if the landlord fails to return the deposit or provide an itemized list within 30 days.
Does Utah require interest on security deposits?
No. Utah does not require landlords to pay interest on security deposits.
How do I get my security deposit back in Utah?
Provide your forwarding address in writing, wait 30 days, send a demand letter citing Utah Code § 57-17-3, and file in small claims court (limit: $11,000) if unresolved.

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