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Security Deposit Split Calculator

Calculate how to split a security deposit between roommates — at move-in, when someone leaves mid-lease, or at final move-out. Handle damage attributions, pro-rata calculations for different move-in dates, and fair refund distributions.

By Baljeet AulakhUpdated February 2026

Splitting a security deposit refund between roommates gets complicated when people moved in at different times, paid different rent amounts, or caused different amounts of damage to the unit. This calculator handles all three scenarios with equal, proportional, and pro-rata splitting methods. Enter your total deposit, each roommate's details, and any common area or personal damages below to calculate fair initial shares, itemized deductions, and the expected refund amount for each person.

Deposit Details

$
$

Damages in shared spaces like living room, kitchen, hallways

Roommates (2)

1
$
$

Damages in their room only

Still living here

2
$
$

Damages in their room only

Still living here

How This Calculator Works

1

Enter Your Details

Fill in amounts, people, and preferences. Takes under 30 seconds.

2

Get Fair Results

See an instant breakdown with data-driven calculations and Fairness Scores.

3

Share & Settle

Copy a shareable link to discuss results with everyone involved.

Frequently Asked Questions

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How Much Is a Security Deposit?

Most security deposits equal 1–2 months' rent, depending on your state. On a $1,500/month apartment, expect a $1,500–$3,000 security deposit upfront — on top of first and last month's rent. That means move-in day can easily cost $4,500–$7,500 before you even buy furniture.

Here's what most renters don't know: 32 states cap security deposits by law. Your landlord may not be allowed to charge more than one month's rent, and many states require the deposit to be held in an interest-bearing account. Know your rights before signing a lease.

Security Deposit Limits by State

Laws vary dramatically by state. Here are the rules for the 10 most populated states:

StateMaximum DepositReturn DeadlineInterest Required?
California2 months21 daysNo
New York1 month14 daysYes, in some cases
TexasNo limit30 daysNo
FloridaNo limit15–60 daysYes, if held 6+ months
IllinoisNo limit30–45 daysNo
Pennsylvania2 months first year, 1 month after30 daysYes, after 2 years
OhioNo limit30 daysNo
GeorgiaNo limit30 daysNo
North Carolina2 months30 daysNo
Massachusetts1 month30 daysYes

How to Split a Security Deposit With Roommates

The simplest approach is an equal split: total deposit divided by the number of roommates. But if bedrooms are different sizes or roommates pay different rent amounts, a proportional split based on each person's rent share is fairer.

One important detail most roommates overlook: only one person is typically on the deposit check from the landlord. That means you need to document each person's contribution in writing before anyone moves in. Get a signed agreement that specifies:

  • Amount each person paid toward the security deposit
  • Who receives the refund check from the landlord
  • How deductions are shared — equally, proportionally, or charged to the person responsible for the damage

Need to figure out fair rent shares first? Use the rent split calculator to determine how much each roommate should pay based on room size and features.

Getting Your Full Security Deposit Back

The single best thing you can do is document the apartment's condition at move-in. Take photos of every wall, floor, and appliance — with timestamps. Email them to yourself and your landlord so there's a dated record. This protects you from being charged for pre-existing damage.

When it's time to move out, remember that normal wear and tear is NOT deductible. Landlords cannot charge you for paint that faded over three years or carpet that wore down from normal foot traffic.

Before handing back the keys, invest in making the unit spotless. Pay $200–$300 for a professional deep clean — it's almost always cheaper than what a landlord will deduct for cleaning fees. Fix minor damage yourself: spackle nail holes for $5 instead of a $50 deduction, and touch up paint for $20 instead of a $100 charge.

Finally, know your state's return deadline (see the table above). If your landlord is late returning the deposit, send a written demand letter via certified mail. In many states, landlords who miss the deadline owe you the full deposit back regardless of any damage.

What Can a Landlord Deduct From Your Deposit?

Understanding the line between deductible damage and normal wear helps you dispute unfair charges:

Allowed deductions: damage beyond normal wear and tear, including holes in walls, broken fixtures, carpet stains, pet damage, missing keys, and unauthorized alterations.

NOT allowed: normal wear and tear, including faded paint, worn carpet from foot traffic, minor scuffs on walls, loose door handles from normal use, and small nail holes from hanging pictures.

Planning your full move-in budget? Use the move-in cost calculator to estimate all upfront costs including first month's rent, security deposit, and moving expenses.