RSMo § 535.300: Missouri security deposit rules in plain English
What RSMo § 535.300 says about Missouri security deposits: the cap, the deadline to return the deposit, itemized deductions and interest. Every fact below comes from our statute-checked data. Last verified 2026-10-22.
Quick answer
- Return deadline
- 30 days
- Maximum deposit
- Two months' rent. Must be held in a federally insured bank, credit union or depository institution; interest earned belongs to the landlord. Pet deposits are not counted as 'security deposit'.
- Itemized list
- Yes, an itemized list of deductions is required
- Interest
- No interest required
What RSMo § 535.300 says, as we verified it
Deposit limit
Two months' rent. Must be held in a federally insured bank, credit union or depository institution; interest earned belongs to the landlord. Pet deposits are not counted as 'security deposit'.
Full citation: RSMo § 535.300 Read the official text
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FAQ: RSMo § 535.300
How long does a landlord have to return a deposit under RSMo § 535.300?
Under RSMo § 535.300, a Missouri landlord has 30 days to return the security deposit or send an itemized list of deductions.
Is there a limit on the security deposit in Missouri?
Two months' rent. Must be held in a federally insured bank, credit union or depository institution; interest earned belongs to the landlord. Pet deposits are not counted as 'security deposit'.
Does Missouri require an itemized list of deductions?
Yes, an itemized list of deductions is required. Citation: RSMo § 535.300.
Does the landlord have to pay interest on the deposit in Missouri?
No interest required.
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Scan my Missouri leaseGeneral information only, not legal advice. Last verified 2026-10-22. Laws change; verify with the linked source or a licensed attorney.