Not legal advice. Template only. Full disclaimer
Michigan security deposit demand letter
Also: Michigan security deposit return deadline (30 days)
DepositLetter is not a law firm and does not give legal advice. Letters are templates based on the information you provide. Laws change and local rules may differ; check the official source linked on each state page or talk to a licensed attorney or local tenant organization.
The rule in plain English
If the landlord claims damages, it must mail an itemized notice of damages within 30 days after occupancy ends, with the balance of the deposit (or, under a 2026 amendment, send the balance electronically within 10 days after mailing the notice). The tenant must respond by mail within 7 days of receiving the notice. Within 45 days after occupancy ends the landlord must either sue for the claimed damages or return the balance.
Statute: MCL §§ 554.609, 554.611, 554.613
Deadline calculator
Enter a move-out date.
Steps for tenants
Within 4 days after moving out, notify the landlord in writing of your forwarding address (§ 554.611); answer any notice of damages by mail within 7 days.
Penalty & remedies
A landlord who does not comply with § 554.613 waives the claimed damages and is liable for double the amount of the deposit retained.
What to put in your letter
What to put in your Michigan demand letter: your forwarding address, move-out date, deposit paid, amount returned, and a short list of disputed charges. Quote MCL §§ 554.609, 554.611, 554.613 and summarize the rule in your own words: If the landlord claims damages, it must mail an itemized notice of damages within 30 days after occupancy ends, with the… Ask for payment by a specific date and say you will consider small claims court if needed. Mention you are sending the letter certified mail.
Going further
Michigan’s process includes short windows: notify the landlord of your forwarding address within four days after move-out, respond to damage notices by mail within seven days, and watch the 30-day notice rule. A 2026 electronic-payment option for balances does not change your right to a clear accounting. If you failed a deadline, say what you did send and when. Your demand should still request the unpaid balance and give a response date. Keep certified mail receipts for every step.
Read more about what to do if your landlord ignores your demand letter.
Sources
- https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-554-609
- https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-554-611
- https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-554-613
Last checked: October 20, 2026
Create my Michigan demand letter
Compare with other states: security deposit return deadline by state · calculate your due date.
FAQ
How long does a Michigan landlord have to return a deposit?
30 days under MCL §§ 554.609, 554.611, 554.613. If the landlord claims damages, it must mail an itemized notice of damages within 30 days after occupancy ends, with the balance of the deposit (or, under a 2026 amendment, send the balance electronically within 10 days after mailing the notice). The tenant must respond by mail within 7 days of receiving the notice. Within 45 days after occupancy ends the landlord must either sue for the claimed damages or return the balance.
What should Michigan tenants do before move-out?
Within 4 days after moving out, notify the landlord in writing of your forwarding address (§ 554.611); answer any notice of damages by mail within 7 days.
Can DepositLetter cite other laws for me?
We only cite the verified statute and rule on this page—not extra penalties unless listed above.
How do I preselect this state in the tool?
Use the button below or visit the home page with your state in the dropdown.
Is this legal advice?
DepositLetter is not a law firm and does not give legal advice. Letters are templates based on the information you provide. Laws change and local rules may differ; check the official source linked on each state page or talk to a licensed attorney or local tenant organization.