Minnesota Security Deposit Laws: Your Rights as a Renter

If you’re renting a home or apartment in Minnesota, understanding your rights around security deposits can help you avoid common disputes and protect your money. In Minnesota, state law clearly outlines what landlords can require, how deposits must be handled, and how renters can take action if their deposit isn’t returned properly. This guide explains Minnesota security deposit laws and your protections as a renter.

What Is a Security Deposit in Minnesota?

A security deposit is money paid by a renter to a landlord at the beginning of a tenancy. Landlords use it to cover unpaid rent, repairs beyond normal wear and tear, or other lease violations. Minnesota law does not set a specific maximum amount a landlord can charge for a security deposit, but most commonly it equals one month's rent. It’s important to know how and when your deposit can be withheld and what rules apply in returning your money.

Key Security Deposit Laws in Minnesota

Under the Minnesota Statutes, Section 504B.178, the law protects renters and sets clear guidelines for landlords. Here are the main rules:

• Return Timeline: Landlords must return the full deposit (plus any interest earned) within 21 days after the lease ends and the renter moves out.
• Interest on Deposits: Landlords must pay simple interest on security deposits, calculated at the rate in effect at the start of the tenancy.
• Permitted Deductions: Deductions can only be made for unpaid rent, damages beyond ordinary wear and tear, or other breaches of the lease.
• Written Statement: If any amount is withheld, landlords must provide a written statement explaining each deduction.
• Forwarding Address: Renters must give a forwarding address in writing to receive the deposit refund.

These regulations help ensure your security deposit is handled lawfully and fairly.

Common Deductions and Disputes

The most common reasons deposits are withheld include unpaid rent and damages beyond normal use. Wear and tear means expected deterioration from everyday living—not damage caused by neglect or misuse, like large stains, holes in walls, or broken appliances due to abuse.

How to Take Action if Your Security Deposit Isn’t Returned

If your landlord fails to return your security deposit or makes unlawful deductions, you have the right to pursue legal action under Minnesota law. The process typically involves:

• Send a written demand: Write to your landlord requesting return of your deposit, include your forwarding address, and keep a copy for your records.
• File a claim in conciliation court: If you don’t receive your deposit within 21 days, you can file a claim in your county’s conciliation court (also known as "small claims court"). This is the official tribunal for resolving renter–landlord deposit disputes in Minnesota. For more, see the Minnesota Judicial Branch Conciliation Court (Small Claims) Forms.
• Use the official form: To begin, you’ll typically complete the "Statement of Claim and Summons (Conciliation Court)" (Form CON110). Download the form here.
• Collect evidence: Bring your lease, correspondence, photos of the unit, and records of payments or deductions.

For a step-by-step guide to filing, see the "How To" steps below.

Official Forms and Practical Examples

• Statement of Claim and Summons (Conciliation Court) – Form CON110:
  This is used by renters to bring a security deposit dispute before the conciliation court. For example, if your landlord fails to return your deposit, you would fill out this form to start your claim.
  Get the Statement of Claim and Summons form and instructions.

Where Disputes are Handled: Minnesota Judicial Branch Conciliation Court

The official tribunal for landlord and tenant disputes, including security deposit claims, is the Minnesota Judicial Branch Conciliation Court. This court provides a simple and low-cost process for resolving disputes up to $15,000. Information on filing, fees, and what to expect can be found on the court’s Conciliation Court page.

Your Rights under Minnesota Law

Minnesota’s main law protecting renters on security deposits is Minnesota Statutes Section 504B.178. This statute provides key safeguards, defines legal deductions, and outlines steps you and your landlord must follow.

FAQ: Security Deposits for Minnesota Renters

1. How long does my landlord have to return my security deposit in Minnesota?
   Your landlord must return the deposit within 21 days after the tenancy ends and you move out, provided you supply a forwarding address.
2. What can my landlord legally deduct from my security deposit?
   Only unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, or specific breaches of the lease can be deducted. Ordinary wear and tear cannot legally be deducted.
3. What happens if my landlord doesn’t return my deposit?
   You may write a demand letter. If you still don’t receive your money, you can file a case in conciliation court using the official claim form.
4. Is my landlord required to pay interest on my deposit?
   Yes, Minnesota law requires landlords to pay simple interest on your deposit, at the rate set at the beginning of your lease.
5. Where do I file a complaint or claim if I have a problem?
   Security deposit disputes are filed in the Conciliation Court of the Minnesota Judicial Branch. Use Form CON110 to start your case.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Minnesota law sets clear rules for how security deposits must be handled and returned within 21 days.
• Your landlord must provide a written explanation of deductions and pay interest on your deposit.
• If there’s a dispute, you can file a claim using official court forms in Conciliation Court.

Understanding your rights—and keeping detailed records—will help protect your deposit.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Minnesota Housing: Renters Resources
• Minnesota Attorney General: Landlord & Tenant Rights
• Minnesota Judicial Branch: Conciliation Court Information
• LawHelpMN: Security Deposits

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1. Minnesota Statutes Section 504B.178 – Security Deposits
2. Minnesota Judicial Branch: Conciliation Court
3. Statement of Claim and Summons (Conciliation Court) – Form CON110
4. Minnesota Attorney General: Landlord & Tenant Rights and Responsibilities

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