An Airbnb refundable deposit is a set amount of money that the platform collects from guests. This covers any property damage that occurred during their stay. Security deposits are refundable if the property was not damaged in any way. Airbnb allows hosts to set up security deposits to cover minor damages.

Airbnb security deposits are not "non-refundable" in the traditional sense; they are intended to be held only in the event of documented damage. In 2026, most hosts use AirCover, where no upfront deposit is taken and the guest is only charged if a damage claim is filed and approved. However, some "API-connected" hosts (professional management companies) are permitted to collect separate security deposits off-platform. These must be clearly disclosed in the listing before booking. These deposits are fully refundable provided you leave the property in good condition. If a host attempts to keep a deposit without providing proof of damage or excessive cleaning through Airbnb’s Resolution Center within 14 days of checkout, you can contest the claim. The only non-refundable portions of an Airbnb stay are typically the service fee and the nightly rate if you cancel outside of the host's specific cancellation policy window (e.g., "Firm" or "Strict").

That’s an excellent and very common question. The short answer is: It depends entirely on the host’s cancellation policy and the specific circumstances of the cancellation.

Airbnb itself doesn’t have a standard, universal “deposit” system. Instead, there are two main financial concepts guests need to understand:

1. The Upfront Payment (Often Confused with a Deposit)

When you book, you pay the total cost (or a portion, with the rest due later) upfront. This is not a “deposit” in the traditional sense. It’s your payment for the stay. Whether you get it back is governed by the host’s chosen cancellation policy.

Host Cancellation Policies (From Most Flexible to Strictest): Flexible: Full refund if canceled at least 24 hours before check-in. Moderate: Full refund if canceled at least 5 days before check-in. Firm: Full refund if canceled at least 30 days before check-in (50% refund if canceled at least 14 days before). Strict: 50% refund if canceled at least 7 days before check-in. Long-Term (28+ nights): Varies, but generally requires a 30-day notice for a partial refund.

Key Takeaway: Your refund eligibility and amount are determined by when you cancel relative to the check-in date and the policy the host selected for that listing.

2. The Security Deposit (The True “Deposit”)

This is a separate hold on your payment method to cover potential damage or extra cleaning. Crucially:

• It’s not charged upfront. Airbnb only places an authorization hold on your payment method (like a hotel does) 24-48 hours before check-in. The funds are blocked but not actually taken.
• It’s fully refundable if no issues are reported. The hold is released shortly after checkout (typically within 14 days, depending on your bank).
• The host must make a claim through Airbnb’s Resolution Center within 14 days of checkout, providing evidence (photos, receipts, etc.). You have a chance to respond and dispute the claim.
• The amount is clearly listed on the listing page under “Price details.”

Special Circumstances for a Full Refund

Even under a strict policy, you may be eligible for a full refund or