Security Deposit in Georgia
State-specific overview · Property & Real Estate
Georgia has minimal deposit protections; landlords need not pay interest or hold deposits separately.
How Georgia treats Security Deposit
Georgia generally does not require landlords to hold security deposits in separate accounts or pay interest. Landlords must return deposits within a reasonable time, though no specific deadline is mandated by statute. Deductions are permitted for unpaid rent and damage beyond normal wear and tear. Georgia law is notably landlord-friendly compared to other states, offering tenants fewer statutory protections regarding deposit handling.
The general definition of Security Deposit
Money a tenant pays upfront to a landlord as a guarantee against damage or unpaid rent.
A security deposit is cash that a tenant gives to a landlord at the start of a lease, held as insurance against property damage or unpaid rent. The landlord must keep this money in a separate account and return it to the tenant when the lease ends, minus any deductions for legitimate damages or unpaid bills. Most states have strict rules about how quickly landlords must return deposits (often 30–45 days) and require them to itemize any deductions. If a landlord wrongfully keeps the deposit, the tenant can sue for the full amount plus penalties.
Read the full Security Deposit entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Georgia.