California · Deposit receipt · Free to generate and download
California Security Deposit Receipt
Record that a security deposit was received on a California rental. Unused deposit is generally due within 21 days after the tenancy ends (Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5 (AB 12, effective July 1, 2024)). This receipt is not the itemized accounting due at move-out.
- Usual return clock: 21 days.
- Ordinary wear and tear is not deductible.
- Ask for a written forwarding address before move-out.
Related California documents
- California Residential Lease Agreement. A fixed-term residential rental contract built around the property’s state rules.
- California Move-In Condition Checklist. A condition inventory completed at move-in. It is not a lease.
- California Security Deposit Itemization. A written accounting of deposit deductions and any refund due after move-out.
- California Rent Receipt. A written record that rent was paid for a stated period. It is not a lease and not a waiver of other amounts still due.
Frequently asked questions
Plain-language answers about California deposit receipt papers. LeaseGen.io is not a law firm. Confirm current statutes before anyone signs.
- What is a security deposit receipt in California?
- It records that deposit money was received, the amount, and the property. Most California landlords may collect no more than one month’s rent as a security deposit, furnished or not. A qualifying small landlord (a natural person, or an LLC owned only by natural persons, with no more than two rental properties totaling four or fewer units) may collect up to two months’ rent unless the tenant is a service member, who stays at one month. Unused deposit must generally be returned within 21 days after the tenant vacates.
- Is the receipt the move-out accounting?
- No. At move-out you still owe an itemized list of deductions and any refund within 21 days, to the extent California law requires.
- What is the deposit cap in California?
- 1× rent