Minnesota Security Deposit Laws 2026
Here's what Minnesota law says about security deposit returns, deadlines, and penalties. All information is sourced from MN Stat. § 504B.178.
Return Deadline
21 calendar days
from move-out date to return your deposit
Penalty for Violations
$500 statutory penalty
Requires a finding of bad faith by the landlord.
If the landlord violates the deadline, they may forfeit ALL right to withhold any portion of your deposit.
Itemization Requirements
- Itemized statement required: Yes
- Itemization deadline: 21 days
- Receipts required: No
Interest Requirements
Your landlord must pay 1% annual interest on your deposit.
Statute of Limitations
- Written lease: 6 years
- Oral lease: 6 years
Small Claims Court
Maximum claim: $15,000
Attorney fee shifting available — you may recover attorney fees if you win.
Primary Statute
Important Exceptions & Edge Cases
MN Stat. § 504B.178(8): Landlord must pay 1% simple interest per year on deposit. Some argue this only applies to buildings built before 8/1/1973 — courts have not uniformly resolved this. Conservative approach: assume interest is owed.
MN Stat. § 504B.178(3): If building is condemned, landlord must return deposit within 5 days (not 21 days).
Think your landlord violated Minnesota law?
Generate a demand letter that cites MN Stat. § 504B.178 and puts your landlord on notice.
This is not legal advice. Reclaim provides legal information and document generation tools. The information on this page is sourced from MN Stat. § 504B.178 and is current as of January 1, 2024. For specific legal questions, consult a licensed attorney in Minnesota.