This guide applies to Missouri law. Rules vary by county and city.

Missouri's security deposit return rules are governed by Mo. Rev. Stat. § 535.300. Missouri does not tier the requirements by unit count — the same rules apply to all Landlords, whether you own one unit or one hundred.

You must return the security deposit (or provide a written itemized statement of deductions) within 30 days after the date of termination of the tenancy (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 535.300(3)). Mark your calendar — 30 days goes fast.

💡 Pro Tip: Start your move-out inspection and documentation immediately. Thirty days goes fast, especially if you need contractor estimates.

If you withhold any portion of the security deposit, you must provide the Tenant with a written itemized statement of deductions, along with any balance remaining, within 30 days. The statement must list the actual or estimated cost of each deduction. Providing false or bad-faith statements exposes you to the penalty described below.

If a Landlord fails to return the security deposit within 30 days without good cause, the Tenant may recover twice the amount wrongfully withheld, plus court costs and reasonable attorney's fees (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 535.300(5)). This is a significant exposure — don't miss the deadline.

Generally, you may deduct for:

Send the deposit (and/or itemized statement) to the Tenant's last known forwarding address. If the Tenant does not provide a forwarding address, send to the rental property address. Document how and when you sent it.

What if I can't find receipts?

Document what you can — photos, written estimates, contractor bids. Missouri courts will consider the evidence you have. If costs are estimated, note that they are estimates and follow up with actual receipts when available. Keeping thorough move-out documentation from day one is your best protection.

Can a Tenant apply the security deposit to last month's rent?

Check your lease. Our Missouri lease does not allow this. There is no Tenant "right" to apply the security deposit to rent under Missouri law, but if you allow it, make sure you've inspected the property for damages first — once the deposit is gone, collecting additional damages is difficult.

Notice of Security Deposit Withholding — Itemized statement of deductions

Security Deposit Return — Mo. Rev. Stat. § 535.300

⚖️ Disclaimer — This article is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice or a legal opinion on any specific case or situation. It does not create an attorney-client relationship. We make no guarantees as to accuracy, completeness, or changes in the law.