Mississippi Deposit return deadline
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Mississippi?
The landlord may keep only amounts reasonably needed for unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear, cleaning or other default costs, itemized in writing. The rest must be returned within 45 days after the tenancy ends, possession is delivered and the tenant makes a demand. Bad-faith retention can add up to $200 in damages on top of actual damages.
Verified Source: Miss. Code Ann. § 89-8-21(3)–(4) · last checked 2026-10-23
How this works in Mississippi
In Mississippi you can keep only what is reasonably needed for unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear, cleaning or other default costs, and it has to be itemized in writing. The rest goes back within 45 days after the tenancy ends, possession is delivered and the tenant demands it.
Worked example for Mississippi
Say the tenant returns the keys and asks for the deposit on August 31, 2026. You count 45 days to October 15, 2026. A worn carpet from ordinary use can't come out of the deposit, but a hole in a door can. Keeping money in bad faith can add up to $200 in damages on top of actual damages.
Mississippi timelines and limits
| Return deadline | 45 days after the tenancy ends, possession is delivered and the tenant demands it |
|---|---|
| Allowed deductions | Amounts reasonably necessary for unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear, cleaning or other default costs, itemized in writing |
| Bad-faith retention | Up to $200 in damages plus actual damages |
Mississippi FAQ
How long does a Mississippi landlord have to return a deposit?
Within 45 days after the tenancy ends, possession is delivered and the tenant makes a demand, under Miss. Code Ann. § 89-8-21.
Can I deduct for normal wear and tear?
No. Only damage beyond normal wear and tear, plus unpaid rent, cleaning or other default costs.
What if I keep the deposit in bad faith?
The tenant can recover up to $200 in damages on top of actual damages.
Sources for this section: Miss. Code Ann. § 89-8-21(3)–(4) (checked 2026-10-23)
Same topic in neighboring states
All Mississippi landlord-tenant law · Mississippi landlord FAQ · Security deposit limit · Notice to enter · Required lease disclosures · Required disclosures (mold, lead, radon, bedbug, asbestos, flood zone) · Move-in checklist
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