Ohio Security Deposit Rules (2026)

Ohio § 5321.16 requires any deposit deduction to be itemized and identified in writing and the amount due returned within 30 days after both termination of the rental agreement and delivery of possession. A written forwarding address matters to statutory damages and attorney-fee rights.

Last reviewed: August 30, 20262 official sources cited

Return / itemization30 days

After termination plus delivery of possession.

Forwarding addressWritten

Tenant should provide a forwarding/new address in writing.

Interest thresholdExcess over $50 or 1 month’s rent

Whichever is greater, when the tenant remains six months or more.

Interest rate5% annually on excess

Computed and paid annually under § 5321.16(A).

What to save

Lease termination date.
Date possession/keys were delivered.
Written forwarding-address notice.
Itemized deduction notice.
Refund and interest records.
Move-in and move-out evidence.

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.

Ohio LawsOhio Revised Code Chapter 5321 — Landlords and Tenants ↗

Official consolidated Ohio residential landlord-tenant chapter.

Related Ohio guides

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