Missouri Security Deposit Return Deadline
- Penalty for missing it
- 2x (twice the deposit) (wrongful withholding — up to 2x the amount wrongfully withheld (§535.300))
- The law
- Mo. Rev. Stat. §535.300
The rule
30 days after termination of tenancy AND the tenant's delivery of the forwarding address (or the date the landlord learns of it). Landlord must provide an itemized list of all deductions (§535.300).
- Deposit cap: 2 months' rent (plus pet deposit).
- The 30-day clock runs from the tenant providing a forwarding address — provide it in writing at move-out.
What happens if your landlord misses the deadline
In Missouri, a missed deadline seriously weakens your landlord's position. Depending on the circumstances, they may forfeit the right to deduct anything at all, owe you the penalty above, or both. The exact consequence depends on Mo. Rev. Stat. §535.300 and whether they provided the required itemized statement. Don't assume the money is gone — a missed deadline is often the strongest fact pattern for getting it back.
Your next steps in Missouri
- Confirm the clock ran. Make sure you provided a forwarding address in writing — in Missouri this step starts the clock, so it matters more than usual, and that the full deadline has passed.
- Send a demand letter citing Mo. Rev. Stat. §535.300 and the 2x (twice the deposit) penalty. Most landlords pay at this stage.
- If they ignore it, file in small claims. See our walkthrough for the process.
Missouri deposit questions
How long does my Missouri landlord have to return my deposit?
30 days after termination of tenancy AND the tenant's delivery of the forwarding address (or the date the landlord learns of it). Landlord must provide an itemized list of all deductions (§535.300).
What if my landlord never sends an itemized list of deductions?
In most states — including Missouri — failing to provide the required itemized statement within the deadline forfeits the landlord's right to withhold anything. Check Mo. Rev. Stat. §535.300 for the exact rule.
Can I get more than my deposit back in Missouri?
Missouri law allows 2x (twice the deposit) for wrongful withholding — up to 2x the amount wrongfully withheld (§535.300). See our penalties guide for how judges apply this.
Source: https://rapideyeinspections.com/blog/security-deposit-return-guide/ · Verified 2026-10-09