Mississippi Security Deposit Not Returned

What Mississippi renters can do when a landlord has not returned a security deposit or sent an itemized explanation.

Start with the demand record

If your Mississippi security deposit was not returned, the first question is whether you clearly demanded it back.

Mississippi's 45-day rule depends on termination of the tenancy, delivery of possession, and demand by the tenant. If your demand was only verbal, send a written demand now and keep proof.

Check the timeline

Write down:

when your tenancy ended
when you returned possession or keys
when you demanded the deposit back
how much the deposit was
whether the landlord sent any refund or itemized statement

If all three trigger events happened and more than 45 days have passed, your written follow-up can be more direct.

If the landlord kept money

If the landlord claims part of the deposit, the notice should itemize the amounts claimed.

Compare each charge to the allowed categories: unpaid rent, tenant-caused damage beyond ordinary wear and tear, cleaning upon termination, or other reasonable and necessary expenses resulting from tenant default.

What to send next

Send a calm written follow-up that asks for the deposit balance or a proper written itemized statement.

Include the dates and deposit amount. Attach or reference your earlier demand if you have it.

Important