The 1.5-month cap and nonrefundable fees
A.R.S. § 33-1321(A) bars a landlord from demanding or receiving security, "however denominated," including prepaid rent, above one and one-half months' rent. You may still choose to prepay more rent voluntarily. Any nonrefundable fee or deposit must have its purpose stated in writing, and a fee not designated nonrefundable is refundable (§ 33-1321(B)).
Move-in paperwork
At move-in, the landlord must give you a signed copy of the lease, a move-in form for listing existing damage, and written notice that you may be present at the move-out inspection. On request, the landlord must tell you when the inspection will occur (§ 33-1321(C)). Fill in the move-in form carefully. It is your baseline evidence.
14 business days, after your demand
The deposit may be applied to rent and to charges in the signed lease, including damage from your noncompliance with § 33-1341, subject to the landlord's duty to mitigate. Within fourteen days, excluding Saturdays, Sundays and legal holidays, after the tenancy ends, you deliver possession and you demand it, the landlord must provide an itemized list of all deductions with any amount due. Unless you arrange otherwise in writing, it is mailed first-class to your last known residence.
Double damages
If the landlord fails to comply, § 33-1321(E) lets you recover the property and money due plus damages equal to twice the amount wrongfully withheld. The calculator counts business days and applies the multiplier.
Steps to recover an Arizona deposit
- Keep the move-in form and photos.
- Ask to be notified of the move-out inspection, and attend.
- Deliver possession and demand the deposit in writing, with your new address.
- Count 14 business days, and dispute any deductions within 60 days of mailing.
- If that fails, file a claim in small claims court.
Neighboring states
California caps most deposits at one month and allows 21 days. Texas has no cap and allows 30 days.
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum security deposit in Arizona?
One and one-half months' rent, including prepaid rent, although a tenant may voluntarily prepay more rent (A.R.S. § 33-1321(A)).
How long does an Arizona landlord have to return a deposit?
14 days, excluding weekends and legal holidays, after the tenancy ends, you deliver possession and you demand the deposit.
How long do I have to dispute deductions in Arizona?
60 days after the itemized list is mailed; after that it is deemed final (§ 33-1321(D)).
What is the penalty for wrongful withholding in Arizona?
The money due plus damages equal to twice the amount wrongfully withheld (§ 33-1321(E)).
Sources
Last reviewed Oct 17, 2026. Read how we verify. Found an error? Tell us.