Your landlord generally has 21 days in California to return your security deposit or send a written itemized statement of deductions. DepositsBack.app helps you take the next step: a state-specific security deposit notice sent by USPS Certified Mail, with tracking that stays attached to your case. This page summarizes general information from Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5 and official state sources.
California security deposit facts
General return deadline
21 days
After tenant moves out
Relevant statute
California Civil Code § 1950.5
Cited in your DepositsBack.app notice
Penalty for non-compliance
Up to 2× wrongfully withheld
May vary by case
Small-claims court limit
$12,500
$12,500 for individuals (effective Jan 1, 2024 per CCP §116.221); $6,250 for entities.
What DepositsBack.app helps with in California
Free deadline check tied to California’s 21-day rule
State-specific security deposit notice citing California Civil Code § 1950.5, prepared and reviewed before mailing
USPS Certified Mail with tracking, acceptance, and delivery timestamps attached to your case
Response Center — paste their email/text/SMS or upload a photo of the letter; AI extracts the issues, amounts, and dates
Complete Case Bundle (included after delivery) with notices, mailing history, attorney handoff sheet, and official resources
The general deadline is 21 days. Landlords must return security deposits within 21 days after a tenant moves out.
You may still be able to send a notice. We show general state information and official sources so you can review your situation and decide your next step.
The Complete Case Bundle includes your notices, USPS Certified Mail history, case summary, evidence checklist, attorney handoff sheet, and official state resources — all in one downloadable ZIP.
If the 21-day deadline passes without a return of your deposit or an itemized statement of deductions, your records — DepositsBack.app notice, USPS Certified Mail delivery confirmation, and any response uploaded to your case — document the timeline. You can review your situation alongside Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5 and official state resources, and decide whether to consult a California attorney or proceed with self-help next steps.