Security deposit demand letter (NY)

In New York, a landlord must return your security deposit — minus any lawful, itemized deductions — within 14 days after you move out. If they miss that deadline, they may forfeit the right to keep any of it. Use this letter to make a clear, dated written demand.

The template

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[Your name]
[Your new address]
[Email] · [Phone]
[Date]

[Landlord / property manager name]
[Landlord address]

Re: Return of security deposit for [rental address, unit]

Dear [Landlord name],

I vacated the above apartment on [move-out date] and returned the keys. Under New York General Obligations Law § 7-108, you are required to return my security deposit of $[amount], less any itemized lawful deductions, within 14 days of my move-out, along with a written statement of any deductions.

As of today I have not received my deposit or an itemized statement. Please send the full amount owed to me at the address above within [e.g., 10] days of this letter.

If I do not receive the deposit or a lawful itemized statement, I will pursue the remedies available to me, which may include recovering up to twice the deposit amount.

Thank you for your prompt attention.

Sincerely,
[Your name]

Replace the [bracketed] parts with your details.

Send by a method you can prove (certified mail or email with confirmation) and keep a copy. This is a template, not legal advice.

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