Security deposit law · Idaho

Idaho Security Deposit Law: How to Get Your Deposit Back

If you rent in Idaho, the law gives you specific rights when you move out — a deadline for your landlord to return your deposit, rules on deductions, and a path to push back if they don't. Here's exactly how it works, and how to protect yourself.

Return deadline21 days
Governing statuteIdaho Code § 6-321
Deposit limitNo statutory limit
Itemized deductionsRequired
Interest on depositNot required by statute
Last reviewedMay 2026

Idaho-specific rules to know

No statutory deposit cap. Return within 21 days; may extend to 30 days if lease specifies. Itemised written statement of deductions required.

What Idaho law requires your landlord to do

Under Idaho Code § 6-321, a Idaho landlord generally must return your deposit within 21 days and provide a written, itemized list of any amounts withheld. They may not deduct for ordinary wear and tear — only for damage beyond normal use, unpaid rent, or other charges the lease and statute allow.

What to do if your landlord won't return your deposit in Idaho

  1. 1. Know your deadline

    In Idaho, the return window is 21 days (Idaho Code § 6-321). Mark the date you moved out and count forward.

  2. 2. Send a written demand

    Email and mail a dated letter requesting your full deposit, referencing the 21-day deadline under Idaho Code § 6-321. Keep proof of delivery. Renter's Vault generates a Idaho-specific letter with the right statute citation filled in.

  3. 3. Gather your evidence

    Move-in and move-out photos with timestamps and location are the difference between your word and theirs. Attach your photo record and any move-in checklist.

  4. 4. Escalate to small claims

    If the landlord misses the deadline or won't respond, you can file in small claims court. Bring your dated demand letter and photo evidence.

Free Idaho dispute-letter guide

A clear, statute-cited demand letter resolves most deposit disputes without ever going to court. Renter's Vault builds a Idaho letter for you — pre-filled with Idaho Code § 6-321, your deadline, and your deductions — in three escalating versions (first request, formal demand, and notice of intent to file).

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Idaho security deposit FAQ

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Idaho?

Under Idaho Code § 6-321, a Idaho landlord must return your security deposit within 21 days after you move out, along with an itemized statement of any deductions.

What can I do if my landlord won't return my deposit in Idaho?

Send a written demand letter that cites Idaho Code § 6-321 and the deadline, keep copies of all communication and your move-in/move-out photos, and if that fails you can file in small claims court. Many states allow extra damages when a landlord withholds a deposit in bad faith.

Is there a limit on how much a landlord can charge for a deposit in Idaho?

In Idaho, the statutory deposit limit is: No statutory limit. Always confirm against the current statute, since limits and exceptions change.

Are there any special deposit rules in Idaho?

Yes. Notable Idaho rules: No statutory deposit cap. Return within 21 days; may extend to 30 days if lease specifies. Itemised written statement of deductions required.

This page is general information for tenants, not legal advice, and laws change. Always confirm the current text of Idaho Code § 6-321 or consult a local attorney or tenants' rights organization for your situation. Last reviewed May 2026.