MS · TenantClaim
Mississippi Security Deposit Return Laws & Calculator
Landlords generally have 45 calendar days to return a deposit under Mississippi Code Section 89-8-23. Use the calculator to check overdue status and estimated recovery.
Mississippi deposit calculator
Statutory math from Mississippi Code Section 89-8-23.
Ready to Calculate Your Rights
Enter your lease dates and deposit amounts to instantly evaluate:
- State statutory return deadline & overdue status
- Treble (3x) or double (2x) bad-faith penalty eligibility
- Small claims court limit & demand letter generation
Bad-faith penalties
Mississippi requires return or itemization within 45 days (Miss. Code § 89-8-23). There is no statewide 2x/3x statutory multiplier; the tenant may recover the amount wrongfully withheld plus costs.
Multiplier: 0x
Wear and tear vs. unlawful deductions
Normal Wear & Tear
Landlord cannot deduct
- Faded or scuffed interior paint from ordinary occupancy in Mississippi
- Carpet wear or flattening in high-traffic pathways from normal foot traffic
- Small nail or pin holes from hanging pictures or curtains
Unlawful Deductions
These charges are illegal
- Charging for ordinary wear and tear instead of damage beyond normal use under Mississippi Code Section 89-8-23
- Keeping any part of the deposit without sending the required itemized statement within 45 calendar days
- Deducting for conditions that existed before move-in or that the landlord was obligated to repair
Small claims court filing limits
$3,500
Claims above this Mississippi ceiling may need District or Civil Court, or a voluntary reduction to stay in small claims.
View Full Mississippi Small Claims Court & Official Form GuideMississippi security deposit FAQ
How long does a Mississippi landlord have to return my deposit?+
Mississippi generally requires return within 45 calendar days after move-out under Mississippi Code Section 89-8-23. If the deadline falls on a weekend, TenantClaim rolls it to the next Monday.
What happens if the landlord keeps my deposit in bad faith?+
Mississippi requires return or itemization within 45 days (Miss. Code § 89-8-23). There is no statewide 2x/3x statutory multiplier; the tenant may recover the amount wrongfully withheld plus costs.
What is the Mississippi small claims limit?+
Most tenants can file in small claims court for up to $3,500. Larger recoveries may need District or Civil Court, or a voluntary reduction of the claim.
Does the landlord have to send an itemized list?+
Yes. Mississippi requires an itemized deduction statement. Withholding money without that statement is a common unlawful deduction.