Michigan

Security deposit timelines in Michigan

Your landlord generally has 30 days in Michigan to return your security deposit or mail an itemized list of damages. 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 Michigan Compiled Laws § 554.609 and official state sources.

Michigan security deposit facts
General return deadline
30 days
After tenant moves out
Relevant statute
Michigan Compiled Laws § 554.609
Cited in your DepositsBack.app notice
Penalty for non-compliance
Forfeiture of deductions + fees
May vary by case
Small-claims court limit
$7,000
Michigan Small Claims Division of District Court.

What DepositsBack.app helps with in Michigan

  • Free deadline check tied to Michigan’s 30-day rule
  • State-specific security deposit notice citing Michigan Compiled Laws § 554.609, 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

Official Michigan resources

Frequently asked
Common questions about Michigan

The general deadline is 30 days. Landlords must return the security deposit or mail an itemized list of damages within 30 days after the tenancy ends.

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 30-day deadline passes without a return of your deposit or a mailed itemized list of damages, your records — DepositsBack.app notice, USPS Certified Mail delivery confirmation, and any response uploaded to your case — document the timeline. Under Michigan Compiled Laws § 554.613, a landlord who fails to comply may forfeit the claimed damages and be liable for up to double the security deposit retained; Michigan small-claims court generally hears disputes up to $7,000. You can review your situation alongside Michigan Compiled Laws § 554.609 and official state resources, and decide whether to consult a Michigan attorney or proceed with self-help next steps.

Check my Michigan deadline
Free, no signup, takes ~30 seconds. If you continue, DepositsBack.app prepares your certified notice for $49.99.
Check my deadline — free
Have your lease ready? You can upload it after the check.