Missouri landlords generally have 30 days after the tenancy ends to return the security deposit or send an itemized list of deductions with any remaining balance.
Give a good mailing address
It helps to give your landlord a current mailing or forwarding address in writing and keep proof that you sent it. Missouri allows the landlord to comply by mailing the deposit response and any payment to the tenant's last known address.
That is not a trap. It is a practical record issue. If the landlord says something was mailed, you want to be able to show what address you gave and when you gave it.
What starts the clock
Missouri's deadline runs 30 days after termination of the tenancy. In plain English, focus on proving when the rental relationship ended and when you gave the place back.
Keep proof of:
- lease end or termination date
- move-out date
- key return
- possession return
- your current mailing or forwarding address
What the landlord should send
Within the 30-day period, the landlord should either:
- return the full deposit, or
- send a written itemized list of deductions with the remaining deposit balance.
If the landlord keeps money, vague statements are not enough. The list should identify what is being charged and how much is being kept.
A missing or vague itemized list can weaken the landlord's position. Compare the list to your photos, inspection notes, lease, receipts, and Missouri's deduction categories.
You have a right to be present for the inspection
Missouri requires the landlord to give reasonable notice of the move-out inspection date and time, either in writing or in person. You have the right to be present.
Save the notice. If you can attend, take notes and compare any later deductions to what was actually discussed or seen at the inspection.
Inspection proof matters after the deadline because it helps answer whether the deduction was actually tied to damage, ordinary wear, carpet cleaning, rent, or another supported category.
Sources used for this guide
Source reviewed: April 2026.
Related Missouri guides
- Missouri deposit not returned
- Missouri demand letter
- Missouri deductions guide
- Missouri evidence checklist
If the deadline has passed and the response is still missing or incomplete, the next step is usually a written notice that puts the date, address proof, itemized-list problem, inspection record, deduction issue, and amount due in one place.
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Important: This is general information and not legal advice.