Know Your Rights: Security Deposits in Minnesota

When you move out of a rental in Minnesota, your landlord must return your security deposit or explain in writing why they are keeping part of it. The main law that protects you is Minn. Stat. § 504B.178 .

Your Rights

1. Your deposit must be returned within 21 days. After you move out, your landlord has 21 days to return your full deposit or send you a written, itemized list of deductions with the remaining balance under Minn. Stat. § 504B.178 .

2. Your landlord cannot charge you for normal wear and tear. Faded paint, minor scuffs on walls, small nail holes, and worn carpet from everyday use are not your responsibility. Landlords can only deduct for damage beyond normal use.

3. You are owed interest on your deposit. Your landlord must pay you interest on your security deposit at 1% per year, accruing from the first day of the month after the full deposit is paid. See Minn. Stat. § 504B.178 .

4. You can get double damages for bad faith. If your landlord keeps your deposit without a legitimate reason, a court may award you up to double the amount wrongfully withheld.

5. You can sue in conciliation court. You can file a security deposit claim in conciliation court (small claims) for under $100 in total costs. You do not need a lawyer.

6. Missing the 21-day deadline hurts the landlord, not you. If your landlord does not return your deposit or send an itemized statement within 21 days, they may lose the right to keep any of it, even if there was real damage.

What to Do

• Take photos at move-in and move-out. Document every room, closet, and appliance. Include dates on your photos. This is your best evidence in any dispute.
• Give your landlord your forwarding address in writing. Send it by email or certified mail so you have proof. Your landlord needs this address to return your deposit.
• Wait 21 days, then send a demand letter. If your landlord has not returned your deposit or has made unfair deductions, send a written demand by certified mail. Give them 14 days to respond.
• File in conciliation court if the landlord does not pay. Go to the county courthouse where the rental was located. Bring your lease, photos, demand letter, and the landlord’s itemized statement (if any).
• Keep all records. Save your lease, move-in checklist, move-out photos, text messages, emails, and bank statements showing your deposit payment.
• Call HOME Line for free advice. HOME Line helps all Minnesota renters with deposit disputes at no cost: 612-728-5767.

Important Deadlines

Deadline	What It Means
21 days	Landlord must return your deposit or send a written itemized list of deductions after you move out
14 days (suggested)	A reasonable deadline to set in your demand letter for the landlord to respond
6 years	Statute of limitations to file a security deposit claim in court

Get Help

For more detail: See our full guide on Getting Your Security Deposit Back.