Montana security deposit law

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

Maximum deposit: No statutory cap
Return deadline: 30 days
Interest: Not required by the statute

No statutory cap. Within 30 days after the tenancy ends, the landlord must give a written list of deductions; if nothing is withheld, the deposit is due within 10 days. Refunds may be sent by electronic transfer, cash, check or mail.

Source: Mont. Code Ann. § 70-25-202 · read on 2026-11-09

Calculate it for your rent

State

Monthly rent ($)

No statutory cap

Montana's statute sets no maximum: the amount is whatever the lease says. We show no « maximum » we would have to invent.

Return deadline

30 days

30 days after the tenancy ends or the unit is surrendered, whichever comes first, with a written list of deductions and the balance. 10 days if nothing is withheld after inspection.

Interest required

Not required by the statute

Montana: No statutory cap. Within 30 days after the tenancy ends, the landlord must give a written list of deductions; if nothing is withheld, the deposit is due within 10 days. Refunds may be sent by electronic transfer, cash, check or mail.

Source: Mont. Code Ann. § 70-25-202 · read on 2026-11-09

Montana: common questions

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

Montana's statute sets no maximum. No statutory cap. Within 30 days after the tenancy ends, the landlord must give a written list of deductions; if nothing is withheld, the deposit is due within 10 days. Refunds may be sent by electronic transfer, cash, check or mail.

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

30 days. 30 days after the tenancy ends or the unit is surrendered, whichever comes first, with a written list of deductions and the balance. 10 days if nothing is withheld after inspection.

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

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