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States/Vermont/Deposit Remedy
✓ Vermont statute verified

Vermont Security Deposit Late-Return Remedy

Under § 4461(e), if the landlord fails to return the security deposit with a statement within the applicable 14-day period, the landlord forfeits the right to withhold any portion. If the failure is willful, the statute provides liability for double the amount wrongfully withheld plus reasonable attorney fees and costs.

Last reviewed: August 30, 20261 official source cited
Late statement/refundWithholding right forfeited

Subject to the statutory timing and facts.

Willful failure2× wrongfully withheld

Plus reasonable attorney fees and costs.

Build the record first

  • Correct statutory trigger date.
  • Mailing/hand-delivery date.
  • Amount withheld.
  • Written statement, if any.
  • Evidence relevant to whether failure was willful.
Use current § 4461, not failed 2026 proposals. Also check any supplemental municipal ordinance. Educational information only.

Official sources

Vermont Legislature9 V.S.A. § 4461 — Security deposits ↗

Current Vermont statute covering allowable deductions, 14-day return/itemization, seasonal rentals, remedies, transfers and municipal supplemental ordinances.

Related Vermont guides

Security Deposit →14-Day Rule →Seasonal 60-Day Rule →Allowed Deductions →