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Missouri security deposit law

Read from the statute itself on 2026-11-09. Statewide rule; a city or county can add its own.

Maximum deposit
2 months of rent
Return deadline
30 days
Interest
Not required by the statute

Capped at two months' rent; a pet deposit does not count toward the cap. Within thirty days after the tenancy ends, the landlord must return the full deposit or give a written itemized list. Interest earned belongs to the landlord.

Source: RSMo § 535.300.1, .2, .3 · read on 2026-11-09

Calculate it for your rent

Maximum legal deposit
$5,000
Up to 2 months of rent under RSMo § 535.300.1, .2, .3.
Return deadline
30 days
Within 30 days after the tenancy ends: return the full deposit, or give an itemized list of damages with the balance.
Interest required
No
Not required by the statute
Missouri: Capped at two months' rent; a pet deposit does not count toward the cap. Within thirty days after the tenancy ends, the landlord must return the full deposit or give a written itemized list. Interest earned belongs to the landlord.
Source: RSMo § 535.300.1, .2, .3 · read on 2026-11-09

Missouri: common questions

How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Missouri?

Up to 2 months of rent under RSMo § 535.300.1, .2, .3. Capped at two months' rent; a pet deposit does not count toward the cap. Within thirty days after the tenancy ends, the landlord must return the full deposit or give a written itemized list. Interest earned belongs to the landlord.

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Missouri?

30 days. Within 30 days after the tenancy ends: return the full deposit, or give an itemized list of damages with the balance.

Not legal advice. Confirm with a local landlord-tenant attorney before relying on a figure.

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