The cap and the $2,000 exemption
Under AS 34.03.070(a), a landlord may not take prepaid rent plus a security deposit totaling more than two months' rent. Subsection (a) then adds that "this section does not apply" to units where the rent exceeds $2,000 a month. If your rent is above that, check with a lawyer or legal-aid office how much of § 34.03.070 still applies. Separately, a landlord may take a pet deposit of up to one month's rent for a pet that is not a service animal. It must be accounted for separately and used only for damage directly related to the pet (subsection (h)).
A trust account
Wherever practicable, the landlord must promptly deposit prepaid rent and deposits in a trust account at a bank, savings and loan, or licensed escrow agent, and tell you the terms under which money may be withheld. Funds may be pooled in one account, but must be accounted for tenant by tenant and may not be mixed with other money. One tenant's money may not be used for another tenant's refund, rent or damages (subsection (c)).
What counts as damage
The landlord may apply the deposit to accrued rent and to damages from your noncompliance with AS 34.03.120. Damage does not include normal wear and tear, or deterioration caused by the landlord's failure to prepare for expected conditions or to meet its own obligations (subsection (b)).
14 or 30 days
If either side gave notice that complies with AS 34.03.290, the landlord must mail the notice and refund within 14 days after the tenancy ends and you deliver possession, or within 30 days if it deducts for damage. Without proper notice, the deadline is 30 days after termination, delivery of possession, or the landlord learning that the unit was abandoned. If the landlord does not know your address but knows how to reach you, it must make a reasonable effort to deliver the refund (subsection (g)).
Our calculator counts 14 days.
Steps to recover an Alaska deposit
- Check whether your rent is above $2,000, which removes the cap.
- Give proper written notice to end the tenancy.
- Leave your mailing address.
- After 14 or 30 days, demand the deposit in writing, citing AS 34.03.070.
- If that fails, file a claim in small claims court.
Compare other states
Washington requires a move-in checklist, Hawaii also uses 14 days, and Oregon uses 31 days.
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum security deposit in Alaska?
Two months' rent, prepaid rent included, unless the rent is over $2,000 a month. A pet deposit of up to one month may be added.
How long does an Alaska landlord have to return a deposit?
14 days with proper notice and no damage deductions; otherwise 30 days.
Does Alaska's cap apply to expensive rentals?
AS 34.03.070(a) states that the section does not apply where rent exceeds $2,000 a month.
What is the penalty in Alaska?
For wilful failure, up to twice the amount withheld.
Sources
Last reviewed Oct 17, 2026. Read how we verify. Found an error? Tell us.