Oklahoma Security Deposit Statute and Sources
The main Oklahoma residential security deposit rule is 41 O.S. section 115 in the Oklahoma Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.
Main Statutory Points
- Deposits must be kept in an Oklahoma escrow account with a federally insured financial institution.
- If money is retained, charges must be itemized in a written statement.
- The balance is due within 45 days after tenancy termination, delivery of possession, and written demand by the tenant.
- If the tenant does not make written demand within six months after termination, the deposit can revert to the landlord.
- The statute supports recovery of the deposit and prepaid rent, if any, for noncompliance.
Why Written Demand Matters
Oklahoma should not be treated as a simple 45-days-after-move-out state. The cleaner path depends on tenancy termination, delivery of possession, and written demand by the tenant.
Written demand is leverage because it starts the practical record. It helps show when the 45-day response window should be measured, protects against the six-month reversion problem, and gives the renter a document to point to if the landlord later sends no refund or no itemized statement.
Official Sources
- Oklahoma Statutes Title 41 PDF
- Oklahoma Supreme Court / OSCN forms page
- OKLaw security deposit guidance
- OKLaw small claims guidance
Source reviewed: April 2026.
Plain-English Guide
If you want the practical explanation instead of source links, start with the main law guide.
Important: This page provides general educational information and source links. It is not legal advice.