This tool is designed to determine the amount of interest accrued on a sum of money held as security for a lease agreement. It factors in the principal deposit amount, the interest rate mandated by law or agreed upon contractually, and the duration the deposit has been held. For example, if a tenant provides a $1,000 security deposit, the governing regulation stipulates a 1% annual interest rate, and the landlord holds the deposit for two years, this calculation instrument would determine the $20 owed to the tenant.
Properly calculating the return on such funds ensures compliance with legal and ethical obligations. Accurate calculations promote transparency and fairness between lessors and lessees, mitigating potential disputes. Historically, regulations concerning the payment of earnings on these sums have evolved to protect tenants from unfair financial practices, ensuring they receive the financial benefit of their deposited funds.