How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Vermont?

No statutory limit (9 V.S.A. § 4461).

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

14 days after the landlord discovers the tenant left or the tenant leaves (60 days for seasonal rentals) (9 V.S.A. § 4461).

Vermont security deposit law

The state rules a landlord in Vermont has to follow for a residential security deposit, from 9 V.S.A. § 4461.

Maximum deposit: No statutory limit.
Deadline to return it: 14 days after the landlord discovers the tenant left or the tenant leaves (60 days for seasonal rentals).
Itemized deductions: Written statement itemizing any deductions, hand-delivered or mailed to the tenant's last known address.
Interest on the deposit: Not required by state law (towns may allow it by ordinance).
Penalty for wrongful withholding: Landlord who misses the deadline forfeits the right to withhold any of it; if willful, double the amount wrongfully withheld plus fees and costs.

Before you keep any part of a deposit

Compare the unit with the move-in inspection and photos. Normal wear and tear is generally not chargeable.
Keep receipts or written estimates for every deduction.
Send the return or the itemized list within the deadline above, to the tenant's forwarding address, and keep proof of mailing.

Working out the last month's rent? The prorated rent calculator does the partial-month math.

Source

Verification status: verified summary. Research date: November 5, 2026. Statute: 9 V.S.A. § 4461. Source: legislature.vermont.gov.

General information, not legal advice. Cities and counties can add stricter rules, and laws change. Check the current statute or a local attorney before you act.

Other states: Texas · Virginia · all states

Last updated November 5, 2026.