Updated for 2026

Vermont Security Deposit Laws & Calculator

Vermont has one of the shortest return deadlines in the country — just 14 days. There's no state cap on deposit amounts, so landlords can charge whatever they want. If your landlord willfully withholds your deposit, you can recover 2x the amount plus attorney fees and court costs.

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Vermont Security Deposit — Quick Facts

Return Deadline
14 Days
Maximum Deposit
No State Limit
Penalty for Late Return
Up to 2×
+ attorney fees + court costs (willful)
Interest Required
✗ No
Applicable Law
Vt. Stat. tit. 9 § 4461
Short Deadline + No Deposit Cap: Vermont's 14-day return deadline is one of the fastest in the US — but there's no limit on how much a landlord can charge upfront. This combination means you could have a very large deposit at stake with a very tight window for your landlord to act. Document everything and be ready to follow up immediately after move-out.

Calculate Your Vermont Deposit Refund

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

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Vermont Security Deposit Law — Explained

The 14-Day Return Deadline

Under Vt. Stat. tit. 9 § 4461, landlords must return the security deposit within 14 days after the tenant vacates the rental unit. This applies whether or not the landlord is making deductions. If deductions are made, the landlord must provide an itemized statement along with the remaining balance within that same 14-day window.

No Cap on Deposit Amounts

Vermont does not set a maximum security deposit amount. Landlords are free to charge whatever they deem appropriate. This means tenants should negotiate deposit amounts before signing a lease and always get the agreed amount in writing.

What Your Landlord Can Deduct

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 an itemized written statement of all deductions.

Penalty for Willful Withholding

If a landlord willfully fails to return the deposit or provide an itemized statement within 14 days, the tenant can recover up to 2x the amount wrongfully withheld, plus reasonable attorney fees and court costs. The "willful" standard means the landlord intentionally or knowingly failed to comply — not just a minor delay.

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, receipts, and all communications.
  2. 2
    Provide your forwarding address in writing Make sure your landlord knows where to send the deposit. Document this with a dated letter or email.
  3. 3
    Wait 14 days Vermont's deadline is strict — your landlord has just 14 days to return the deposit or provide an itemized statement of deductions.
  4. 4
    Send a formal demand letter Use RenterCalc's demand letter generator citing Vt. Stat. tit. 9 § 4461. Send via certified mail.
  5. 5
    File in small claims court Vermont's small claims limit is $5,000. You can sue for up to 2x the amount wrongfully withheld plus attorney fees and court costs.

Vermont Security Deposit FAQ

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Vermont?
Vermont landlords must return the deposit within 14 days after the tenant vacates — one of the shortest deadlines in the US.
What is the maximum security deposit in Vermont?
Vermont has no state limit on security deposit amounts. Landlords can charge any amount.
What is the penalty for not returning a security deposit in Vermont?
For willful withholding: up to 2x the amount wrongfully withheld, plus attorney fees and court costs.
Does Vermont require interest on security deposits?
No. Vermont does not require landlords to pay interest on security deposits.
How do I get my security deposit back in Vermont?
Document the unit, provide your forwarding address, wait 14 days, then send a demand letter citing Vt. Stat. tit. 9 § 4461 and file in small claims court (limit: $5,000) if unresolved.

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