General info, not legal advice. Details

Missouri Security deposit limit

Last reviewed 2026-10-23

How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Missouri?

No more than two months' rent. Since Aug. 28, 2025, cities and counties may not set their own deposit caps (RSMo 441.043.2(3)).

Verified Source: RSMo § 535.300(1); RSMo § 441.043.2(3) · last checked 2026-10-23

Related Missouri rules

Deposit return deadline

Within 30 days after the tenancy ends: return the full deposit, or an itemized list of damages for any amount kept.

Verified Source: RSMo § 535.300(3) · last checked 2026-10-15 · Full Missouri deposit return deadline page

Interest on deposits

No interest is owed to the tenant. Deposits (capped at two months' rent) must be held in a federally insured bank, credit union or depository institution, and any interest earned belongs to the landlord.

Verified Source: RSMo § 535.300(1)–(2) · last checked 2026-10-15 · Full Missouri interest on deposits page

Move-in/move-out checklist

No move-in inspection is required. For the move-out inspection, the landlord must give reasonable written notice of its date and time, and the tenant has the right to be present.

Verified Source: RSMo § 535.300(5) · last checked 2026-10-15 · Full Missouri move-in/move-out checklist page

Same topic in neighboring states

All Missouri landlord-tenant law · Missouri landlord FAQ · Deposit return deadline · Notice to enter · Required lease disclosures · Required disclosures (mold, lead, radon, bedbug, asbestos, flood zone) · Move-in checklist

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