Security deposit return deadlines · Texas
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Texas?
30 days
A Texas landlord generally must refund the deposit, or account for deductions, within 30 days after you surrender the premises.
Source: Texas Property Code §§ 92.103–92.109 · checked October 9, 2026
Calculate your Texas deadline
What Texas law says
- The 30-day period runs from the date you surrender the property.
- The landlord's duty to refund or describe deductions depends on you giving a written forwarding address, so send one if you have not.
What to do next
- Write down the move-out date, the date you returned the keys and when you gave a forwarding address.
- Collect the lease, proof of the deposit payment, move-out photos and any messages about deductions.
- Ask in writing for the balance or an itemized explanation, with a clear reply date.
- Send it to the notice address in the lease. Certified Mail with Return Receipt gives you proof of delivery.
- If there is still no answer, small claims court is a common next step; filing rules vary by state.
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Other states
- California — 21 days
- Florida — 15 or 30 days
- Georgia — 30 days
- Illinois — 30 or 45 days
- Michigan — 30 days
- New York — 14 days
- North Carolina — 30 days
- Ohio — 30 days
- Pennsylvania — 30 days