Your landlord must act within 30 days after termination under Mo. Rev. Stat. § 535.300. If they missed it, a statute-cited demand letter is the fastest first move.
One flat fee. No subscription. Not a law firm.
| Deadline to return / itemize | within 30 days after termination |
|---|---|
| Statute | Mo. Rev. Stat. § 535.300 — read the official text |
| Itemized deduction statement | Required if any portion is withheld |
| Exposure for wrongful withholding | Wrongful withholding can make the landlord liable for up to twice the amount wrongfully withheld. |
| Worth knowing | Deposit capped at two months' rent; tenant may request to attend the move-out inspection. |
This is general legal information about Mo. Rev. Stat. § 535.300, not legal advice about your situation. Statutes contain conditions and exceptions, and legislatures amend them — always check the official text linked above.
Example: $1,500 deposit wrongfully withheld in full → exposure of up to $3,000.
Most landlords understand this math, which is why a letter that cites Mo. Rev. Stat. § 535.300 and states the deadline they missed is often enough to get a check without going to court.
Your deposit amount, move-out date, landlord's address, and what happened. About 3 minutes.
A formal demand letter citing Mo. Rev. Stat. § 535.300, the 30-day deadline, and the remedies the statute provides.
Printed and sent by USPS Certified Mail with tracking — your proof of delivery if this ends up in small claims court.