Ohio Security Deposit 5% Interest Rule

Ohio does not impose a statewide security-deposit cap in § 5321.16. Instead, subsection (A) requires interest on the portion exceeding $50 or one month’s periodic rent, whichever is greater, when the tenant remains in possession six months or more.

Last reviewed: August 30, 20261 official source cited

Interest-bearing portionExcess over greater of $50 or 1 month rent

Only the excess portion.

Rate5% per year

Computed and paid annually.

Occupancy threshold6+ months

Tenant must remain in possession for six months or more.

Do not misread this as a deposit cap

The interest threshold is not the same thing as a statutory maximum deposit. RentBillCheck does not present Ohio § 5321.16 as a statewide deposit cap.

Educational information only. The statewide statute is only one layer. Local rules, lease terms and the facts can affect a particular dispute.

Official sources

Ohio LawsOhio Revised Code § 5321.16 — Security deposits ↗

Primary statute for 30-day itemization/refund, forwarding addresses, interest and remedies.

Related Ohio guides

Security Deposit →30-Day Rule →Forwarding Address →Deductions & Itemization →