Max 2 months' rent.

Within 30 days after you move out, they must return it or list damages.

Why, and the exact law

From Mo. Rev. Stat. § 535.300, read Oct 6, 2026.

Show the law

“A landlord may not demand or receive a security deposit in excess of two months' rent …”

Mo. Rev. Stat. § 535.300 · revisor.mo.gov

Who can help

Get free legal helpThey can help you ask for it, or go to small claims court.Missouri Legal Services

Every rule here, word for word (2)

This page covers state law only. Cities with their own rules have their own pages.

Missouri lawIn force

How big can the deposit be?

Max 2 months' rent.

Within 30 days after you move out, they must return it or list damages.

Who it covers

Exemptions: Pet deposits are excluded from the definition of security deposit; housing authorities and other government landlords are exempt from the deposit-holding subsection.

The law, word for word

“A landlord may not demand or receive a security deposit in excess of two months' rent …”

Mo. Rev. Stat. § 535.300 · revisor.mo.gov · Retrieved Oct 6, 2026

Missouri lawIn force

Can my city add deposit rules?

No. Cities and counties can't limit deposits.

Missouri law sets the limit: two months' rent.

The law, word for word

“(3) Limits the amount of security deposit a landlord may require from a prospective tenant …”

Mo. Rev. Stat. § 441.043 · revisor.mo.gov · Retrieved Oct 6, 2026

Information about the law, not legal advice.