Get your security deposit back in Austin

Short answer

Under Texas law the landlord has 30 days after you move out and leave a forwarding address to refund the deposit or send an itemized deduction list. A dated demand letter is the step that moves stalled deposits.

Who this is for

Austin renters who moved out, left a forwarding address, and have not seen the deposit or a written deduction list.

The steps, in order

1. Confirm you gave a written forwarding address; the 30-day clock starts there.
2. Gather the move-out photos, the lease, and any checkout paperwork.
3. Send a dated demand letter asking for the deposit or the itemized list.
4. If nothing arrives, the Justice of the Peace court is the usual next step.
5. Keep every receipt and message; the paper trail is the case.

Have this ready

• Your forwarding address proof
• Move-out photos
• The lease
• The landlord's name and address for the letter

Common mistakes to avoid

• Skipping the written forwarding address; without it the landlord's clock may never start.
• Waiting months before sending the demand; earlier pressure settles most of these.

Common questions

How long does a Texas landlord have to return a deposit?

Thirty days after you move out and provide a forwarding address. After that they owe the refund or a written, itemized deduction list.

What if the deductions look inflated?

Normal wear and tear is not deductible in Texas. Dispute specific items in writing and keep the evidence for small-claims court if it goes there.

Official source

• Texas Property Code security deposits

Checked August 26, 2026. Recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.