How long does an Alabama landlord have to return my security deposit?
Usually 35 days after the tenancy ends and you return possession of the rental.
If the landlord keeps any money, the landlord should mail an itemized accounting within that same 35-day period.
Is Alabama a 35-day state?
Yes. For the ordinary security deposit refund and accounting rule, Alabama uses 35 days after termination of the tenancy and delivery of possession.
Can my landlord charge more than one month's rent as a deposit?
Alabama generally caps the deposit at one month's periodic rent.
There are exceptions. The statute allows extra amounts for pets, changes to the premises, or increased liability risks to the landlord or property. If you were charged more, ask what the extra amount was for.
What if I did not give a forwarding address?
You should give a valid forwarding address in writing when you move out.
If you do not, the landlord may mail the refund or accounting to your last known address. If there is no last known address, the landlord may use the rental property address.
Does first-class mail count?
Yes. Alabama allows first-class mailing within the 35-day period to satisfy the statute.
That is why envelopes, postmarks, checks, itemized accountings, and returned-mail records can matter.
What happens if a refund check is never claimed?
Alabama has a 180-day rule for unclaimed deposits and outstanding checks.
If a mailing is returned and the tenant does not claim the deposit within the required time, the money can be forfeited. If you expected a refund and nothing arrived, follow up in writing instead of waiting.
What if the landlord misses the 35-day deadline?
Alabama has a strong remedy. If the landlord fails to mail a timely refund or accounting, the landlord must pay double the amount of the tenant's original deposit.
The cleaner your timeline and mailing proof are, the easier it is to make that demand clearly.
What proof should I keep?
Keep the lease, deposit amount, move-out date, key-return or possession proof, forwarding-address proof, itemized accounting, refund check, envelope, postmark, returned-mail record, photos, videos, and all landlord messages.
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This page provides general educational information and is not legal advice.