Wisconsin Security Deposit Law (2026): Limit & Deadline

Maximum deposit

No statutory limit

Return deadline

21 days after tenant surrenders premises

Controlling statute

Wis. Stat. § 704.28; Wis. Admin. Code ATCP 134.06

No statutory dollar cap. Wisconsin sets no statewide limit on the deposit amount — but local ordinances may, and the return deadline above still applies. Market practice is typically 1–2 months of rent.

Maximum security deposit in Wisconsin

No statutory limit. 21-day return under § 704.28(4); no statutory cap. ATCP 134.06 mirrors the 21-day rule; violations can be unfair trade practices.

Returning the deposit

21 days after tenant surrenders premises (with itemized statement of any deductions). Read Wis. Stat. § 704.28; Wis. Admin. Code ATCP 134.06 for the exact triggers, itemization requirements, and penalties for late or bad-faith withholding.

Compare with other states

See the full sortable table in our free security deposit limits by state tool, or jump to another state below.

Frequently asked questions

What is the maximum security deposit a landlord can charge in Wisconsin?

No statutory limit. 21-day return under § 704.28(4); no statutory cap. ATCP 134.06 mirrors the 21-day rule; violations can be unfair trade practices. This is a best-effort summary verified against the official statute (Wis. Stat. § 704.28; Wis. Admin. Code ATCP 134.06) on June 7, 2026 — always confirm with the current law or an attorney.

When must a landlord return a security deposit in Wisconsin?

21 days after tenant surrenders premises (with itemized statement of any deductions). See Wis. Stat. § 704.28; Wis. Admin. Code ATCP 134.06 for the exact conditions and any itemization requirements.

What statute governs security deposits in Wisconsin?

Wis. Stat. § 704.28; Wis. Admin. Code ATCP 134.06. The official text is published by the state at https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/document/statutes/704.28.

Is this legal advice?

No. This page is a best-effort summary compiled from primary legal authority and verified on June 7, 2026. Statutes change, and many states use tiers or exceptions a summary can't capture. Confirm with the current statute or a licensed attorney before relying on it.

Wisconsin security deposit law