How Much Can You Charge for a Security Deposit?
Updated 10 days ago (March 6, 2026)
You need to be well versed in your state's law to understand the specific requirements for security deposits. The general rule of thumb is that one month's rent is acceptable, which is usually sufficient to pay for any damages.
[In California,](https://resources.tellusapp.com/tag/california] for example, landlords can charge two months' rent for an unfurnished unit, or three months' rent for a furnished unit. If the tenant has a waterbed, you can add an additional half month's rent to the total security deposit amount.
Please note that the landlord normally cannot require the tenant to pay the security deposit in cash only.
Legal Disclaimer: Tellus provides this content for informational purposes only. This is not legal advice. Laws vary by state and locality, and regulations may have changed since this article was published. Consult a qualified attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
State-by-State Guide
Laws on this topic vary significantly by state. Select a state below to read about its specific laws and statutes.