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Plain-English guides on security deposits, wear and tear, demand letters, and small-claims court.

Information, not legal advice. We're a self-help platform — see our disclaimer.

Deposit basics

What is a security deposit?

What it covers, how much landlords can ask for, where the money is held, and what happens at move-out.

When the landlord won't return it

My landlord isn't returning my deposit. What now?

Step-by-step playbook for getting your deposit back: check the deadline, demand in writing, escalate if needed.

How to write a demand letter

The seven sections of an effective demand letter, what to attach, and the tone that actually moves landlords.

Wear and tear & deductions

Wear and tear vs. damage

What landlords can and can't legally deduct from your deposit, with the gray areas (carpet, paint, holes) explained.

How the demand letter works

How USPS Certified Mail works

Why certified mail carries weight in a deposit dispute — what it proves, what it costs, how to send one yourself.

More guides on the way. The state pages have the specific deadline rules and statute text for your jurisdiction. The deadline calculator tells you whether your landlord is past the window.