How to send your security deposit demand letter
Certified Mail gives proof of mailing and a record of delivery or attempted delivery. Add Return Receipt for a delivery record showing the recipient's signature. USPS service details (accessed 2026-09-21).
Before you go
Complete and sign your letter. Check the landlord's mailing address against your lease and recent correspondence. Make a copy of the signed letter and every enclosure. Send copies of supporting records and keep your originals.
Use the letter-writing guide to review your draft and the state directory to check the rules that apply.
What to ask for at the counter
Please send this by First-Class Mail with Certified Mail and Return Receipt. I would like a postmarked mailing receipt.
Choose a paper return receipt or an electronic return receipt. Ask the clerk to help attach the correct labels, weigh the envelope with its enclosures, and confirm the total before you pay. Keep the postmarked receipt and tracking number.
What it costs
Prices effective 2026-07-12, checked 2026-09-21 against USPS Notice 123. Postage is separate from your letter-kit purchase.
| Service | USPS price |
|---|---|
| First-Class stamped machinable letter, up to 1 oz | $0.82 |
| Certified Mail, in addition to postage | $5.55 |
| Paper Return Receipt, in addition | $4.65 |
| Electronic Return Receipt, in addition | $2.91 |
For that stamped letter, the total is $11.02 with a paper return receipt or $9.28 with an electronic return receipt. Heavier, oversized, or nonmachinable envelopes cost more. Ask the clerk for the current price for your envelope.
What to keep
- The completed, signed letter and an exact copy of every enclosure.
- The addressed envelope copy, postmarked mailing receipt, and tracking number.
- Saved tracking updates and the paper or electronic return receipt.
- Any returned envelope, postal notices, and the landlord's reply.
If tracking says refused or unclaimed
Refused: The addressee declined the mail or refused to pay charges due on it.
Unclaimed: The addressee did not collect the mail. This status does not tell you why.
These are postal status descriptions. USPS definitions (accessed 2026-09-21). Save the returned envelope and tracking history, and check the address before deciding how to follow up.
What to do next
Record any response and compare it with your letter and supporting documents. If the dispute continues, review the next steps after no response and your state's court instructions. Check notice and service requirements with the court or a local legal resource before relying on a delivery status.
This guide covers mailing a demand letter. For court papers, follow the court's separate service instructions. Self-help information, not legal advice.