Never chase down checks or late rent payments again. Accept rent by ACH or card. Automated payments, fees & reminders.
Open a security deposit bank
account for free
Create a Virtual account
(aka - rental escrow account)
Collect escrow security deposits
into a virtual account
In Arizona, the maximum security deposit that a landlord can charge is equivalent to one and a half months’ rent. This limit applies to both furnished and unfurnished properties, and it also covers any additional fees, such as pet deposits or cleaning fees. Landlords are required to return the security deposit, minus any deductions for damages or unpaid rent, within 14 days of the tenant moving out. If the landlord fails to do so, the tenant may be entitled to damages of twice the amount wrongfully withheld. It’s important to review your lease agreement and state laws to fully understand the specific terms and conditions related to security deposits.
These are the other states where you can use Baselane: Arizona, California, Illinois, New Jersey, Texas, Virginia & all major states in the USA.
Tenants can cause a lot of damage to your rental property, so you should aim to collect the largest security deposit the market will bear. One month’s rent is typical in most parts of the country, but you may be able to demand more if your rental property is in a particularly hot market.
Your state may set a cap on how much you can collect. Many states, including New York, Massachusetts, and Ohio, set the maximum security deposit you can collect at one month’s rent. Others, including California, Pennsylvania, and Maryland, limit security deposits to 2 months’ rent. There’s no limit on security deposits for rentals in Indiana and Florida.
You should collect the security deposit and the first month’s rent when your new tenant signs the lease. Be sure to give your tenant a detailed receipt for their deposit that includes all information required by local law. Consider using Baselane for automated rent collection to get paid faster, simplify your bookkeeping and ensure you’re handling your deposits appropriately.
If local law states a lower maximum security deposit for month-to-month leases, you may be required to refund the excess amount. Otherwise, the initial terms of the lease usually continue to apply when switching to month-to-month, and no change to the security deposit is required.
You should collect the security deposit and the first month’s rent when your new tenant signs the lease. Be sure to give your tenant a detailed receipt for their deposit that includes all information required by local law. Consider using Baselane for automated rent collection to get paid faster, simplify your bookkeeping and ensure you’re handling your deposits appropriately.