Security Deposit Laws in Missouri
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Missouri?
Under Mo. Rev. Stat. § 535.300, a landlord in Missouri has 30 days after you move out to either return your full security deposit or provide an itemized statement of deductions along with any remaining balance.
Important Missouri-specific details
Deposit must be held in a federally insured bank/credit union (though interest belongs to landlord). Landlord must give tenant written notice of the move-out inspection date/time; tenant has right to be present. Pet deposits are not included in the 2-month cap. Carpet cleaning deductions allowed if disclosed in lease.
What happens if the landlord misses the deadline in Missouri?
Missing the deadline has real consequences for landlords in Missouri. Under the statute, the penalty is: For wrongful withholding, tenant may recover up to 2x the amount wrongfully withheld (this remedy does not apply to commercial tenants per PDQ Tower Services v. Adams, 2007).
In practice, this means if your landlord doesn't return the deposit (or a proper itemized statement) within 30 days, you likely have a strong case in small claims court.
What can the landlord legally deduct from your deposit in Missouri?
Missouri law generally allows landlords to deduct for:
- Unpaid rent
- Damage to the unit beyond normal wear and tear — holes in walls, broken fixtures, stains, pet damage
- Cleaning costs, if the unit is left noticeably dirtier than at move-in
- Breach-of-lease costs, such as early termination fees where legally permitted
Landlords cannot deduct for normal wear and tear — faded paint, worn carpet from regular use, minor scuffs, or small nail holes from hanging pictures.
Calculator: check your deposit situation
Enter your move-out date and deposit amount below to see exactly when your landlord's deadline is — and whether they've already missed it.
Security Deposit Return Calculator
Find out when your landlord must return your deposit and what they're legally allowed to deduct.
What to do if your landlord won't return your deposit in Missouri
- Send a demand letter by certified mail. Cite Mo. Rev. Stat. § 535.300 and the amount owed. Keep a copy and the delivery receipt.
- Give the landlord a reasonable response window — typically 7 to 14 days after the demand letter.
- File in small claims court. In most states you can sue for up to $5,000–$10,000 without a lawyer. Filing fees are usually $30–$75 and often recoverable as costs.
- Bring evidence. Lease, move-in and move-out photos, the demand letter, proof of delivery, and any communications with the landlord.
For a complete walkthrough, see our guide: What to Do If Your Landlord Won't Return Your Security Deposit.
Missouri Security Deposit FAQ
- How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Missouri?
- In Missouri, landlords must return the security deposit within 30 days of the tenant moving out, per Mo. Rev. Stat. § 535.300. They must either return the full deposit or provide an itemized statement of any deductions.
- What is the maximum security deposit a landlord can charge in Missouri?
- In Missouri, the maximum security deposit is 2 months of rent under Mo. Rev. Stat. § 535.300.
- What happens if my landlord doesn't return my deposit on time in Missouri?
- In Missouri, the penalty for wrongfully withholding a security deposit is: For wrongful withholding, tenant may recover up to 2x the amount wrongfully withheld (this remedy does not apply to commercial tenants per PDQ Tower Services v. Adams, 2007). You can sue in small claims court to recover the deposit plus the statutory penalty.
- Does my landlord in Missouri have to pay interest on my security deposit?
- No. Missouri does not require landlords to pay interest on security deposits.
- Does my landlord have to itemize deductions from my deposit in Missouri?
- Yes. Missouri law requires landlords to provide an itemized statement of any deductions made from your security deposit.