Ohio Security Deposit Law (2026): Limit & Deadline

Maximum deposit

No statutory limit

Return deadline

30 days

Controlling statute

No statutory dollar cap. Ohio sets no statewide limit on the deposit amount — but local ordinances may, and the return deadline above still applies. Market practice is typically 1–2 months of rent.

Maximum security deposit in Ohio

No statutory limit. Deposits over $50 or one month's rent (whichever greater) earn 5% interest if tenancy is 6+ months. Wrongful withholding: double the wrongfully withheld amount plus attorney fees.

Returning the deposit

30 days (after termination + delivery of possession; tenant must provide forwarding address). Read Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.16 for the exact triggers, itemization requirements, and penalties for late or bad-faith withholding.

Compare with other states

See the full sortable table in our free security deposit limits by state tool, or jump to another state below.

Frequently asked questions

What is the maximum security deposit a landlord can charge in Ohio?

No statutory limit. Deposits over $50 or one month's rent (whichever greater) earn 5% interest if tenancy is 6+ months. Wrongful withholding: double the wrongfully withheld amount plus attorney fees. This is a best-effort summary verified against the official statute (Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.16) on June 7, 2026 — always confirm with the current law or an attorney.

When must a landlord return a security deposit in Ohio?

30 days (after termination + delivery of possession; tenant must provide forwarding address). See Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.16 for the exact conditions and any itemization requirements.

What statute governs security deposits in Ohio?

Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.16. The official text is published by the state at https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-5321.16.

Is this legal advice?

No. This page is a best-effort summary compiled from primary legal authority and verified on June 7, 2026. Statutes change, and many states use tiers or exceptions a summary can't capture. Confirm with the current statute or a licensed attorney before relying on it.

Ohio security deposit law