Ohio has no deposit cap. Refund is due within 30 days. For deposits held six months or more, 5% annual interest is owed on the amount exceeding one month's rent (or $50, whichever is greater).
Last verified: 2026-10-10
Max deposit
—
no statutory cap
Return deadline
30
days after tenancy ends
Interest required
Yes
paid to tenant
Separate account
No
Maximum Security Deposit
No statutory maximum
No maximum security-deposit amount established in ORC §5321.16.
Return Deadline
30 days
After termination and delivery of possession; tenant must supply written forwarding address.
Interest on Deposit
Required
Conditional: 5% annual interest on the portion exceeding the greater of $50 or one month's rent when possession lasts six months or more. Interest computed and paid annually.
Separate Account Required
Not required
ORC §5321.16 contains no segregation/account requirement.
⚖️ Permitted Deductions
Past-due rent; damages from noncompliance with §5321.05 or rental agreement; deductions must be itemized.
📋 Official Source
The information on this page is sourced from the primary Ohio statute. Always verify against the current official text before making decisions.
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Ohio?
Ohio does not set a statutory maximum for security deposits. Landlords and tenants may agree to any amount in the lease. No maximum security-deposit amount established in ORC §5321.16.
How long does a landlord have to return the security deposit in Ohio?
Ohio landlords must return the security deposit — or provide a written itemized statement of deductions — within 30 days after the tenancy ends. After termination and delivery of possession; tenant must supply written forwarding address.
Does Ohio require landlords to pay interest on security deposits?
Yes. Ohio requires landlords to pay interest on security deposits. Conditional: 5% annual interest on the portion exceeding the greater of $50 or one month's rent when possession lasts six months or more. Interest computed and paid annually.
Must Ohio landlords keep security deposits in a separate bank account?
No. Ohio law does not require a separate bank account for security deposits. ORC §5321.16 contains no segregation/account requirement.
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 Ohio 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 Ohio before making decisions. Official source: https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-5321.16. Last reviewed: 2026-10-10.