"I checked out of SamSam M2 but my deposit hasn't arrived yet."

Many people say this after checking out and waiting for their SamSam M2 deposit.
SamSam M2 deposits aren't returned instantly at checkout. They go through a set procedure before the refund is processed.
This article summarizes the official process, timing, and precautions for SamSam M2 deposit returns.

SamSam M2 deposit return process — 3 steps

According to SamSam M2's official site, deposit returns follow these steps.

Step 1 — Guest requests deposit return

After checking out, you must tap 'Request deposit return' in the app.
The return process only starts after this request. If you just check out without requesting, nothing will happen.

Step 2 — Host inspects the room and confirms checkout

The host checks for damage, stains, or lost items.
If there's no problem, they complete 'Confirm checkout' in the app.

Step 3 — Deposit return is processed

Once checkout is confirmed, the refund proceeds according to the payment method.
Card payments are processed on the card issuer's business days. Cash payments are returned via bank transfer.

💡 If the host doesn't confirm checkout within 3 days, SamSam M2 can process the refund directly.

How long does a SamSam M2 deposit return take?

After checkout confirmation, timing varies by payment method.
Card refunds follow the card issuer's business days, so weekends and holidays can add a few days.
The faster the host confirms, the sooner you'll get the refund. If no host confirmation occurs within 3 days, SamSam M2 will handle it.

Source: SamSam M2 official site & Terms (as of 2025)

Notes when getting a SamSam M2 deposit back

① You must request the refund in the app after checkout

Refunds aren't automatic at checkout.
You must tap 'Request deposit return' in the app to start the process.

② Record the room condition on move-in day

If the host finds damage or stains at checkout, costs may be deducted from the deposit.
Taking photos and videos of the whole room on move-in day is the best way to prevent disputes.
Pay special attention to wall scratches, appliance function, and furniture damage.

③ Checkout cleaning is also reviewed

Some listings may deduct from the deposit based on cleaning at checkout.
Check the cleaning rules before signing the contract.

No-deposit short-term rentals — plott LIFE

The SamSam M2 deposit return flow looks like this.

Checkout → Request refund in app → Host inspects room → Confirm checkout → Wait for card issuer processing

There are several steps to handle and wait time involved.

"By contrast, plott LIFE direct listings skip this entire process."

Because the deposit is ₩0.

No refund request, no host inspection, no waiting for card processing.
Once the contract ends and you check out, that's it.

Source: SamSam M2 & plott LIFE official sites (as of 2025)

FAQ — Common questions about SamSam M2 deposit returns

Q. When will I get my SamSam M2 deposit back?

A. After checkout, request 'Deposit return' in the app. Once the host confirms checkout, the refund proceeds.
Card refunds follow the card issuer's business days. If the host doesn't confirm within 3 days, SamSam M2 will process the refund directly.

Source: SamSam M2 official site & Terms (as of 2025)

Q. Where do I request a SamSam M2 deposit return?

A. Go to the reservation menu in the app and tap 'Checkout & Request deposit return'.
The guest's request must be completed before the host can confirm checkout.
It may feel a bit tedious, but don't skip this step.
It's best to request right after you check out.

Source: SamSam M2 official site (as of 2025)

Q. Can my deposit be deducted?

A. Yes. If damage or stains are found at checkout, restoration costs may be deducted from the deposit.
Recording the room condition with photos—especially door locks, boilers, wallpaper, and flooring—on move-in day helps prevent disputes.

Q. Are there short-term platforms without a deposit return process?

A. Yes. plott LIFE direct listings have a ₩0 deposit.
There’s no refund request, no host inspection, and no waiting—checkout is final.

Don't stress too much about when your deposit will arrive.

SamSam M2's deposit is a fixed ₩330,000, much lower than typical monthly deposits.
It's held safely via escrow, but you do need to complete the request, inspection, and waiting steps after checkout.
If the process seems annoying or worrying, choosing a plott LIFE direct listing with no deposit is the simpler option.

plott LIFE — deposit-free short-term rentals

Direct listings: ₩0 deposit · no refund steps · utilities included · weekly contracts

When you're looking for short-term rentals with no deposit process, start with plott LIFE.