Arkansas Security Deposit Deadline
For covered Arkansas leases, the basic rule is straightforward: the landlord generally must return the deposit, less any properly itemized deductions, within 60 days after the tenancy terminates and possession is delivered.
That second part matters. The cleanest timeline shows both when the tenancy ended and when you delivered possession.
For a renter, the safest record also shows what address the landlord had. Save the move-out notice, key-return proof, forwarding-address message, mailing receipt, email, or text that proves the timeline.
What the landlord must send
Within the 60-day period, the landlord should return the covered deposit balance or provide a written itemized list of charges against the deposit with any remaining payment due.
The landlord may deduct accrued unpaid rent and damages caused by the tenant's noncompliance with the rental agreement. Ordinary wear and tear should not be treated as damage.
The last-known-address rule
Arkansas lets the landlord comply by first-class mailing the written notice and any required payment to the tenant's last known address.
That means your address record can matter. Give a current mailing address in writing and keep proof.
If you are not sure the landlord has the right address, fix that in writing before the dispute gets harder. Arkansas's mailing rule makes address proof more than a small detail.
The 180-day returned-payment issue
If the letter containing payment is returned and the landlord cannot locate the tenant after reasonable effort, the payment can become the landlord's property 180 days from the date it was mailed.
That is why renters should not let address proof become an afterthought.
Small-landlord caution
The Arkansas security-deposit subchapter does not apply to many landlords owning five or fewer dwelling units unless paid third-party management is involved. If that issue matters, keep the claim factual and verify the owner/management facts.
Once the 60-day issue matters, the next step is practical: preserve the timeline, confirm the address record, ask for the missing refund or itemized list, and keep proof of delivery.
Get the Deposit Recovery SystemSources used for this guide
Source reviewed: April 2026.
Important
This page provides general educational information and is not legal advice.