Answers, compared across states

Common questions, answered for all 50 states and Washington, DC, from the same checked rules as our guides.

• Does a landlord lose the deposit if they miss the deadline?In some states a landlord who misses the deposit deadline loses the right to keep any of it; in others only damage deductions, or nothing automatically. State-by-state list with sources.
• Are security deposit deadlines counted in calendar days or business days?Most states count calendar days, a few count business days or months, and some set no fixed deadline at all. State-by-state list with sources.
• Do I need to give my landlord a forwarding address to get my deposit back?In some states the deposit deadline only starts once your landlord has your forwarding address; in others it affects the penalties. State-by-state list with sources.
• What can a court award if a landlord wrongfully keeps a deposit?Double or triple damages, fixed penalties, or nothing extra: what each state's law allows when a landlord wrongfully keeps a security deposit. Sources linked.
• What is the small claims court limit in my state?The maximum you can sue for in small claims court in each state and Washington, DC, with filing fees and sources.
• Which states have automatic-renewal (click-to-cancel) laws?Which states have their own automatic-renewal law for subscriptions, which rely on federal law, and what each requires. Sources linked.
• Do I have to pay for things a subscription sent without my consent?In some states, goods sent under an automatic renewal without your consent are legally a gift you can keep. Which states, and what each law covers.
• How long do I have to dispute a credit card charge?The federal 60-day window for disputing a credit card charge in writing, when it starts, and how a demand letter fits in.
• How long does a company have to ship my order?The federal rule for mail, internet and phone orders: the promised time, or 30 days if none was stated, and your right to cancel for a refund.