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Mississippi security deposit law
Short answer: A Mississippi landlord must return what's left of the deposit within 45 days after the tenancy ends, the tenant moves out and the tenant asks for it, with a written, itemized notice of anything kept. State law sets no limit on the deposit amount.
| Deadline to return the deposit | 45 days after the tenancy ends, the tenant hands over possession, and the tenant asks for the deposit. |
|---|---|
| Limit on how much a landlord can charge | No limit in state law. |
| Itemized list of deductions | Yes. The written notice claiming any part of the deposit must itemize the amounts claimed. |
| Interest on the deposit | Not required by state law. |
| Penalty if the landlord breaks the rules | A landlord who keeps a deposit in violation of the law and without good faith can owe up to $200 in damages on top of actual damages. |
| What the tenant has to do | Ask for your deposit after you move out; the 45 days start with your demand. |
| The law | Mississippi Code Section 89-8-21 (text checked via FindLaw's copy of the code, current through January 1, 2025; no later changes found) |
Official law: Mississippi Code Section 89-8-21 (text checked via FindLaw's copy of the code, current through January 1, 2025; no later changes found). Checked against the statute on 2026-11-04.
Good to know
- Deductions are limited to unpaid rent, damage beyond ordinary wear and tear, cleaning at the end of the tenancy, and other reasonable expenses from the tenant's default, if the deposit was taken for those purposes.
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 Mississippi?
45 days after the tenancy ends, the tenant hands over possession, and the tenant asks for the deposit.
Is there a limit on security deposits in Mississippi?
No limit in state law.
Does a landlord in Mississippi have to itemize deductions?
Yes. The written notice claiming any part of the deposit must itemize the amounts claimed.