🏔 Colorado Security Deposit Return Letter
Formal Return Letter — Full or Partial Return with Itemization
SEND WITHIN 30 DAYS: Colorado requires the deposit to be returned — or a written explanation of deductions provided — within 30 days of tenant move-out (60 days if your lease specifies). Send this letter with the refund check by certified mail to create a paper trail. Missing this deadline forfeits your right to make deductions and exposes you to treble damages.
📅 Property & Dates
👤 Tenant Information
💰 Deposit Amounts
📝 Deductions Summary (if any)
For deductions, also complete and attach the Itemized Deductions Form with receipts and photos.
👔 Landlord Information
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The Security Deposit Return Letter is the formal document landlords send when returning a tenant’s deposit. Under C.R.S. § 38-12-103, this letter — along with any remaining balance — must be sent within 30 days of the tenant vacating (or 60 days if your lease extends the deadline).
What the Letter Must Include
- Date of the letter and the original deposit amount
- Any deductions with itemized descriptions and amounts
- The balance being returned and how it’s being sent
- Landlord signature and contact information
- Tenant’s forwarding address for delivery
Send by Certified Mail
Always send by certified mail with return receipt. This proves you sent it within the deadline. Keep the letter copy, certified mail receipt, and signed return card in your file permanently.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline
Under C.R.S. § 38-12-103, missing the deadline forfeits your right to retain any portion of the deposit and may expose you to the full amount wrongfully withheld, plus triple damages and attorney fees.
⚖ Legal Disclaimer
This form is for informational purposes only. Security deposit return rules vary by lease terms. Consult a qualified Colorado attorney in disputed situations before withholding any portion of a deposit.
