Updated for 2026

Missouri Security Deposit Laws & Calculator

Missouri landlords must return your security deposit within 30 days of move-out. The state caps deposits at 2 months' rent and allows tenants to recover 2× the amount wrongfully withheld. Use our free calculator to see what you're owed.

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Missouri Security Deposit — Quick Facts

Return Deadline
30 Days
After move-out
Maximum Deposit
2 Months' Rent
Penalty for Late Return
2× Withheld
Interest Required
✗ No
Applicable Law
Mo. Rev. Stat. § 535.300

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Enter your deposit amount and move-out date to instantly see your landlord's deadline, any penalties owed, and your total refund.

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Missouri Security Deposit Law — Explained

The 30-Day Return Deadline

Under Mo. Rev. Stat. § 535.300, Missouri landlords have 30 days after the lease terminates and the tenant vacates to return the security deposit. The landlord must provide an itemized list of any deductions along with the remaining balance. The 30-day clock starts when the tenant moves out and returns possession of the unit.

Deposit Cap: 2 Months' Rent

Missouri caps security deposits at 2 months' rent. This applies to all residential rentals. If your landlord charged more than 2 months' rent, you may be entitled to a refund of the excess amount.

What Your Landlord Can Deduct

Missouri landlords may deduct for unpaid rent and damage beyond normal wear and tear. Normal wear and tear — minor scuffs on walls, faded paint, carpet worn from regular foot traffic — cannot be charged to the tenant. The landlord must provide a specific, itemized list of all deductions. Vague descriptions like "general cleaning" or "miscellaneous repairs" are not sufficient.

Penalties for Wrongful Withholding

Missouri provides a meaningful penalty for landlords who wrongfully withhold deposits. Tenants can recover up to 2× the amount wrongfully withheld. This penalty applies when the landlord fails to return the deposit within 30 days or makes improper deductions. The 2× penalty gives tenants real leverage in disputes.

What to Do If Your Landlord Is Late

  1. 1
    Document everything before you leave Take timestamped photos and video of every room. Keep your lease and all written communications.
  2. 2
    Provide your forwarding address in writing Email or send certified mail with your new address.
  3. 3
    Send a formal demand letter after 30 days Use RenterCalc's demand letter generator to create a letter citing Mo. Rev. Stat. § 535.300.
  4. 4
    Wait 14 days for a response Give your landlord a reasonable window to respond.
  5. 5
    File in small claims court Missouri's small claims limit is $5,000. You can sue for the deposit plus 2× the wrongfully withheld amount.

Missouri Security Deposit FAQ

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Missouri?
Missouri landlords have 30 days after the tenant moves out to return the deposit with an itemized list of deductions.
What is the maximum security deposit in Missouri?
Missouri caps deposits at 2 months' rent.
What is the penalty for not returning a security deposit in Missouri?
Tenants can recover up to 2× the amount wrongfully withheld under § 535.300.
Does Missouri require interest on security deposits?
No. Missouri does not require landlords to pay interest on security deposits.
How do I get my security deposit back in Missouri?
Document the unit, provide your forwarding address, wait 30 days, then send a demand letter. If unresolved, file in small claims court (limit: $5,000).

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