States/Alabama/Security Deposit
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Alabama renter guide

Alabama Security Deposit Rules (2026)

Alabama § 35-9A-201 generally limits a residential security deposit to one month’s periodic rent, with listed exceptions for pets, changes to the premises and increased liability risks. After both termination of the tenancy and delivery of possession, the landlord has a 60-day framework for the refund and any itemized withholding notice.

Last reviewed: August 30, 20263 official sources cited
General deposit cap1 month’s rent

Exceptions exist for pets, changes to the premises and increased liability risks.

Return / accounting60 days

After termination of tenancy and delivery of possession.

Forwarding addressWritten

The tenant should provide a valid forwarding address in writing.

Late statutory remedyDouble original deposit

Section 35-9A-201(f), subject to the facts and legal application.

What to preserve

  • Lease and deposit receipt.
  • Date the tenancy terminated.
  • Date possession was delivered.
  • Written forwarding-address notice and proof of delivery.
  • Refund check and any itemized accounting.
  • Move-in/move-out photos and records supporting disputed deductions.

Do not reduce Alabama to “60 days from move-out”

The statute ties the ordinary accounting period to termination of the tenancy and delivery of possession. Keep evidence of both events before calculating the deadline.

Verify the trigger and mailing facts. Alabama’s 60-day rule depends on termination and delivery of possession, and the forwarding-address/mailing record can matter. Educational information only.

Official sources

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