Missouri Security Deposit Law at a Glance
Governing Statute
Mo. Rev. Stat. §535.300 — Security Deposits
Return Deadline
Your landlord must return your deposit or provide an itemized statement within 30 calendar days after termination of tenancy and delivery of possession.
Penalty for Non-Return
If your landlord fails to return your deposit or provide an itemized statement within 30 calendar days, you may be entitled to up to double the amount wrongfully withheld under Mo. Rev. Stat. §535.300(5).
Key Facts
- Maximum deposit: 2 months rent
- Itemization required: Within 30 calendar days
- Small claims limit: $5,000
Additional Protections
- Deposit limited to 2 months rent
- Landlord must return deposit with itemized list within 30 days
What Your Missouri Demand Letter Includes
Every letter is built from Missouri's actual statute — not a generic template.
Exact Statute Citation
Mo. Rev. Stat. §535.300 cited by section number. Your landlord sees you know the law.
Calculated Deadline
30 calendar days from your move-out date, computed automatically from your specific dates.
Penalty Warning
up to double the amount wrongfully withheld — cited so your landlord knows the cost of non-compliance.
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Missouri Security Deposit FAQ
How long does my landlord have to return my security deposit in Missouri?
Under Mo. Rev. Stat. §535.300, your landlord has 30 calendar days after termination of tenancy and delivery of possession to return your security deposit or provide an itemized statement of deductions.
What happens if my Missouri 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 up to double the amount wrongfully withheld under Mo. Rev. Stat. §535.300(5). You can pursue this in small claims court.
What is the maximum security deposit a landlord can charge in Missouri?
Under Mo. Rev. Stat. §535.300(1), the maximum security deposit in Missouri is 2 months rent.
Does my Missouri landlord have to itemize deductions from my deposit?
Yes. Missouri law requires landlords to provide an itemized list of deductions within 30 calendar days of move-out.
Can I sue my landlord in small claims court in Missouri?
Yes. Missouri 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 Missouri?
No. A demand letter is a formal written request, not a lawsuit. You can send one yourself. Our tool generates a Missouri-specific demand letter citing Mo. Rev. Stat. §535.300 so your landlord knows you understand your rights.
Security Deposit Demand Letters by State
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