Missouri security deposit law

• Within 30 days after the tenancy ends, return the full deposit or send a written itemized list of damages withheld with the balance.

Mailing to the tenant's last known address satisfies the return rule.

Required: Yes. Written itemized list of the damages for which the deposit is withheld.

The landlord may withhold only for unpaid rent, restoring the unit to its move-in condition excluding ordinary wear and tear, carpet cleaning at actual cost if the lease discloses it (with a receipt within 30 days), and damages from inadequate notice to end the tenancy. The statute does not define ordinary wear and tear.

Any money or property given to secure the lease is a security deposit however it is labeled. Pet deposits are excluded from the definition.

• Interest required: No. No interest owed to the tenant; any interest earned belongs to the landlord.
• Separate account required: Yes. Deposits must be held for the tenant in a federally insured bank, credit union or depository institution. Housing authorities and other government landlords are exempt.
• Move-in inspection required: No. No move-in inspection required. The landlord must give reasonable notice of the move-out inspection date and time, and the tenant may attend.

Wrongful withholding: tenant recovers twice the amount wrongfully withheld.

The statute does not require bad faith; the double damages apply to any wrongful withholding.

Small claims court hears claims up to $5,000, not counting interest or costs (RSMo § 482.305). Court information

Before filing, many tenants send a written demand first. Write a Missouri demand letter →

• A tenant may not use the deposit as rent.
• The landlord may still sue for damages above the deposit.

• Mo. Rev. Stat. § 535.300 Retrieved October 11, 2026.
• Mo. Rev. Stat. § 482.305 Retrieved October 11, 2026.

Laws change. This page was checked against the sources above on October 11, 2026. It is legal information, not legal advice; see our methodology.