Arkansas Security Deposit Law at a Glance
Governing Statute
Ark. Code §18-16-305 — Security Deposits
Return Deadline
Your landlord must return your deposit or provide an itemized statement within 60 calendar days after termination of tenancy.
Penalty for Non-Return
If your landlord fails to return your deposit or provide an itemized statement within 60 calendar days, you may be entitled to no specific statutory penalty multiplier; tenant may recover actual damages under Ark. Code §18-16-305.
Key Facts
- Maximum deposit: 2 months rent
- Itemization required: Within 60 calendar days
- Small claims limit: $5,000
Additional Protections
- Landlord must provide itemized list of damages within 60 days
What Your Arkansas Demand Letter Includes
Every letter is built from Arkansas's actual statute — not a generic template.
Exact Statute Citation
Ark. Code §18-16-305 cited by section number. Your landlord sees you know the law.
Calculated Deadline
60 calendar days from your move-out date, computed automatically from your specific dates.
Penalty Warning
no specific statutory penalty multiplier; tenant may recover actual damages — cited so your landlord knows the cost of non-compliance.
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Arkansas Security Deposit FAQ
How long does my landlord have to return my security deposit in Arkansas?
Under Ark. Code §18-16-305, your landlord has 60 calendar days after termination of tenancy to return your security deposit or provide an itemized statement of deductions.
What happens if my Arkansas landlord doesn't return my deposit on time?
If your landlord fails to return your deposit within the legal deadline, you may be entitled to no specific statutory penalty multiplier; tenant may recover actual damages under Ark. Code §18-16-305. You can pursue this in small claims court.
What is the maximum security deposit a landlord can charge in Arkansas?
Under Ark. Code §18-16-304, the maximum security deposit in Arkansas is 2 months rent.
Does my Arkansas landlord have to itemize deductions from my deposit?
Yes. Arkansas law requires landlords to provide an itemized list of deductions within 60 calendar days of move-out.
Can I sue my landlord in small claims court in Arkansas?
Yes. Arkansas small claims court handles cases up to $5,000. Security deposit disputes are one of the most common small claims cases.
Do I need a lawyer to send a security deposit demand letter in Arkansas?
No. A demand letter is a formal written request, not a lawsuit. You can send one yourself. Our tool generates a Arkansas-specific demand letter citing Ark. Code §18-16-305 so your landlord knows you understand your rights.
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