Security Deposit Interest in Los Angeles: 3.03% (2026)
Los Angeles requires interest on security deposits for Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO) units — the 2026 rate set by the Rent Adjustment Commis… Current rate, payment rules and the official sourc
Quick answer
Yes — Los Angeles landlords must pay interest on qualifying security deposits. Los Angeles requires interest on security deposits for Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO) units — the 2026 rate set by the Rent Adjustment Commission is 3.03%, with two payment methods the landlord can choose between.
State statute (official text) · 2026-10-28The current rate in Los Angeles
Los Angeles's rate is 3.03% for the period 2026 (RAC-set annual rate). The rate is set by the Rent Adjustment Commission (RAC). Landlords may pay either the RAC simple rate or the actual amount earned in the deposit account — the second method requires providing the tenant's bank statement.
When the rate changes
The Los Angeles rate is not written permanently into law — the publishing authority re-announces it periodically, and the number can move up or down with it. When a new value publishes, this page's rate, the worked example below and the verified date all move together. Before relying on a figure from any source — including this one — check the official announcement linked below for the current period.
How the interest is calculated
Two methods are allowed: (1) the RAC simple rate applied to the deposit, or (2) the actual interest the deposit account earned — the landlord must provide the bank statement to use the second method.
Who the rule applies to
Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO) units. Mobile home parks are exempt. Interest accrual under the rule began November 1, 1990, and the 2002 interest year was waived.
Rules that go further
- Interest accrual under the LA rule began November 1, 1990.
- The 2002 interest year was waived.
- Mobile home parks are exempt from the interest requirement.
Los Angeles vs California state law
California does not require interest at the state level — the Los Angeles rule is what creates the obligation inside the city. The statewide picture: California security deposit interest.
What that looks like in dollars
For a $2,000 deposit held for a full year at the current 3.03% rate, the interest owed works out to $60.60:
| Deposit | Rate | One year's interest |
|---|---|---|
| $2,000 | 3.03% | $60.60 |
| $3,500 | 3.03% | $106.05 |
Partial years are prorated. This example applies the published rate mechanically — the statute and the calculation method section above control in a real dispute.
The source behind it
| Field | Value | | --- | --- | --- | | Rule | Los Angeles Municipal Code — RSO; rate set by the Rent Adjustment Commission (LAHD bulletin) | | Official source | housing.lacity.gov | | Last verified | 2026-10-28 |
- LAHD Rent Stabilization Bulletin — Interest Payment on Security Deposit (2026 rate 3.03%; rules and rate chronology) (official — primary source)
FAQ
Do landlords in Los Angeles have to pay interest on security deposits?
Yes. Los Angeles requires interest on security deposits for Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO) units — the 2026 rate set by the Rent Adjustment Commission is 3.03%, with two payment methods the landlord can choose between.
What is the current security deposit interest rate in Los Angeles?
3.03% for the period 2026 (RAC-set annual rate). The rate is set by the Rent Adjustment Commission (RAC). Landlords may pay either the RAC simple rate or the actual amount earned in the deposit account — the second method requires providing the tenant's bank statement.
Where can I confirm the rate?
The official source linked in the source section below publishes the current value — rates change periodically, so check it before relying on this page.
Independent second source · 2026-10-28Related guides
- All states: security deposit interest by state · rent increase rules by state
- Tools: deposit interest calculator · rent increase calculator
- Statewide rules: California security deposit interest
- Other cities that require interest: Berkeley · Chicago · San Francisco This page is information, not legal advice — see the full disclaimer.