Your landlord generally has 21 days in Washington to return your security deposit or provide a written statement of any 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 RCW § 59.18.280 and official state sources.
Washington security deposit facts
General return deadline
30 days
After tenant moves out
Relevant statute
RCW 59.18.260 through RCW 59.18.280
Cited in your DepositsBack.app notice
Penalty for non-compliance
Up to 2× wrongfully withheld
May vary by case
Small-claims court limit
$10,000
Washington Small Claims Department of District Court (raised from $5,000 in 2019).
What DepositsBack.app helps with in Washington
Free deadline check tied to Washington’s 30-day rule
State-specific security deposit notice citing RCW 59.18.260 through RCW 59.18.280, 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 30 days. Landlords must return security deposits within 30 days of lease termination.
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 a written 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 RCW § 59.18.280 and official state resources, and decide whether to consult a Washington attorney or proceed with self-help next steps.