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States/Missouri/2-Month Limit
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Missouri renter guide

Missouri Two-Month Security Deposit Limit

RSMo § 535.300.1 states that a landlord may not demand or receive a security deposit in excess of two months’ rent.

Last reviewed: August 30, 20261 official source cited
Maximum security deposit2 months’ rent

Statewide statutory cap for residential security deposits.

Pet depositExcluded from definition

The statute’s definition of security deposit does not include money or property denominated as a pet deposit.

Classify each upfront charge

  • Security deposit.
  • Pet deposit.
  • Prepaid rent.
  • Application or administration fee.
  • Other separately described charge.
Review the lease and actual condition. Missouri distinguishes ordinary wear from chargeable damage and has a specific carpet-cleaning provision. Educational information only.

Official sources

Missouri Revisor of StatutesRSMo § 535.300 — Security deposits ↗

Current official Missouri statute covering the two-month cap, 30-day return/itemization, permissible withholdings, move-out inspection, carpet-cleaning provision and wrongful-withholding damages.

Related Missouri guides

Security Deposit →30-Day Rule →Move-Out Inspection →Normal Wear vs Damage →