21 days, or 15 after they get your address if that's later.
The rule
In Connecticut, the clock starts when: tenancy ends. The landlord then has 21 calendar days. The statute says:
“Not later than twenty-one days after termination of a tenancy or fifteen days after receiving written notification of such tenant's forwarding address, whichever is later…”
Send the forwarding address in writing: the court notes on this section say double damages need one.
For example, if you returned the keys on Oct 26, 2026, the date would be Nov 16, 2026. Use the Clock for your own dates.
What the landlord has to send
A written statement itemizing the nature and amount of the damages, delivered to your forwarding address.
How much a deposit can be
Two months' rent for tenants under 62.
Interest
At least the deposit index for each year, and never less than 1.5%.
Do this
On move-out day
Give your forwarding address in writing and keep proof of sending. Photograph every room before you return the keys.
Deductions and wear and tear
Connecticut's statute limits what can be kept to the purposes it lists. We haven't summarised its wear-and-tear language yet; read the section linked above.
For a charge to replace something old, Fair Charge works out a prorated estimate from the item's age and useful life, and says where the useful life comes from. See also the item guides for carpet, paint and cleaning.
If the deadline passes
Twice the deposit (plus interest) for violating the return rules.
“Any landlord who violates any provision of this subsection shall be liable for twice the amount of any security deposit paid by such tenant…”
The usual first step is a written demand that states the date the deposit was due and cites the statute. Our demand letter does that and carries any disputed deductions.
Your next steps
- Dated move-out plan for Connecticut: notice, the steps that start the clock, and the deadline.
- Letters: forwarding address · deposit demand · notice to vacate
- Small claims: we haven't verified Connecticut's limit or self-help page yet.
- Connecticut tenant-rights hub
Sources
- Conn. Gen. Stat. §47a-21(d)(2) · checked 2026-10-05
Information, not legal advice. Statutes are quoted from official legislature sites; summaries are ours. Spotted an error? Tell us.