Missouri caps deposits at two months. Refund or itemized statement due within 30 days of tenancy end. Interest belongs to the landlord by statute. Deposits must be held at a federally insured institution.
Last verified: 2026-10-10
Max deposit
2
months' rent
Return deadline
30
days after tenancy ends
Interest required
No
not required
Separate account
Required
Maximum Security Deposit
2 months's rent
Pet deposit separately denominated is excluded from the statutory definition of security deposit.
Return Deadline
30 days
After termination of tenancy; refund or itemized damages and balance can be mailed to last-known address.
Interest on Deposit
Not required
RSMo §535.300 subsection 2 expressly makes earned interest the landlord's property.
Separate Account Required
Required
Subsection 2 requires holding in a federally insured bank, credit union, or depository institution. Government landlords exempt.
⚖️ Permitted Deductions
Rent default; restoration to initial condition excluding ordinary wear; actual carpet-cleaning costs under specified conditions; actual damages from inadequate termination notice subject to mitigation.
📋 Official Source
The information on this page is sourced from the primary Missouri statute. Always verify against the current official text before making decisions.
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Missouri?
Missouri law limits security deposits to 2 months's rent. Pet deposit separately denominated is excluded from the statutory definition of security deposit.
How long does a landlord have to return the security deposit in Missouri?
Missouri landlords must return the security deposit — or provide a written itemized statement of deductions — within 30 days after the tenancy ends. After termination of tenancy; refund or itemized damages and balance can be mailed to last-known address.
Does Missouri require landlords to pay interest on security deposits?
No. Missouri law does not require landlords to pay interest to tenants on security deposits. RSMo §535.300 subsection 2 expressly makes earned interest the landlord's property.
Must Missouri landlords keep security deposits in a separate bank account?
Yes. Missouri requires landlords to hold security deposits in a separate account. Subsection 2 requires holding in a federally insured bank, credit union, or depository institution. Government landlords exempt.
Automate security deposit compliance
Property management software handles deposit tracking, deadline reminders, itemized deduction statements, and compliant separate account requirements automatically — so you never miss a Missouri deadline.
This page is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Security deposit laws change — always verify the current statute or consult a licensed attorney in Missouri before making decisions. Official source: https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=535.300. Last reviewed: 2026-10-10.