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Arkansas security deposit law
Short answer: An Arkansas landlord has 60 days after the tenancy ends to return the deposit, minus unpaid rent and damages listed in an itemized written notice. Deposits are capped at two months' rent. These rules don't apply to small landlords who own five or fewer units and manage them themselves.
| Deadline to return the deposit | 60 days after the tenancy ends and the tenant hands over possession. |
|---|---|
| Limit on how much a landlord can charge | Two months' rent. |
| Itemized list of deductions | Yes. Unpaid rent and damages must be itemized in a written notice delivered with the rest of the deposit. |
| Interest on the deposit | Not required by state law. |
| Penalty if the landlord breaks the rules | A landlord who breaks the rules owes the money due plus twice the amount wrongfully withheld, costs and attorney's fees. If the landlord proves an honest error despite reasonable procedures, or a good-faith dispute over the amount, the landlord owes only the amount wrongly kept plus costs. |
| What the tenant has to do | Keep your address current. If the refund is mailed, returned, and the landlord can't find you after reasonable effort, the money becomes the landlord's 180 days after mailing. |
| The law | Arkansas Code Sections 18-16-303 to 18-16-306 (text checked via FindLaw's copy of the code; no later changes to these sections found) |
Official law: Arkansas Code Sections 18-16-303 to 18-16-306 (text checked via FindLaw's copy of the code; no later changes to these sections found). Checked against the statute on 2026-11-04.
Good to know
- Big exemption: these deposit rules don't apply to an individual who (with spouse, minor children and their rental companies) owns five or fewer units, unless a paid third party manages them.
- Mailing the notice and payment by first-class mail to the tenant's last known address counts as compliance.
Tips for landlords
- Do a written move-in inspection and have the tenant sign it. Take dated photos of every room, including inside appliances and closets.
- Collect the tenant's forwarding address in writing at move-out.
- Put the itemized list and the refund in the mail well before the deadline, and keep proof of mailing.
- Normal wear and tear (faded paint, light carpet wear, small nail holes) usually can't be charged. Damage beyond that can.
Tips for tenants
- Take your own dated photos and video on move-in day and move-out day.
- Give your landlord your forwarding address in writing, and keep a copy.
- If the deadline passes, send a written demand letter that cites the law above before going to small claims court.
Common questions
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Arkansas?
60 days after the tenancy ends and the tenant hands over possession.
Is there a limit on security deposits in Arkansas?
Two months' rent.
Does a landlord in Arkansas have to itemize deductions?
Yes. Unpaid rent and damages must be itemized in a written notice delivered with the rest of the deposit.