What can I charge for a security deposit?
Enter your monthly rent and a few details about your property and tenant to see the maximum deposit you can legally collect, and what you're allowed to deduct at move-out. Built and maintained by VELK Property Management Group.
Service members are always capped at one month's rent, even if you'd otherwise qualify for the small-landlord exception below.
About this information. This tool reflects California Civil Code Section 1950.5, as amended by
AB 12 and AB 2801, and is accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time this tool was built (June 2026).
Some California cities (including Los Angeles, West Hollywood, and Pasadena) require landlords to pay tenants
annual interest on security deposits at a rate set by that city each year — this tool tells you whether that
requirement applies to you, but does not quote a specific rate, since rates change annually and a stale number
could mislead you. This tool is provided as free general information to help property owners get oriented. It
does not constitute legal advice, is not a substitute for consultation with a licensed attorney or your city's
rent stabilization office, and VELK Property Management Group is not responsible for decisions made based
solely on this tool. Always confirm current rules with your city before collecting or returning a deposit.