DisputeKit / Arkansas
How long does a Arkansas landlord have to return a security deposit?
60 days. Under Arkansas Code § 18-16-305, a landlord must return the security deposit, or deliver a written notice itemizing any unpaid rent and damages deducted together with the remaining balance within 60 days. The clock starts when you move out and hand back possession of the unit. A court may also award the money due plus damages equal to two times the amount wrongfully withheld, with costs and reasonable attorney's fees, unless the landlord proves the error happened despite reasonable procedures or was a good-faith dispute over the amount due.
I moved out of my place in on and my landlord still has my $ deposit.
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Conditions that change the deadline
- The 60 days run from the end of the tenancy and the tenant's handing back possession.
- The landlord complies by mailing the itemized notice and any payment by first class mail to the tenant's last known address, so the tenant should give a forwarding address in writing.
- These deposit rules do not apply to an individual landlord who (with spouse, minor children and their rental companies) owns five or fewer rental units, unless the units are managed for a fee by a third party such as a property manager.
What Arkansas law says about deductions and your rights
- The landlord may deduct only accrued unpaid rent and damages caused by the tenant's failure to follow the rental agreement.
- If a mailed refund is returned and the landlord cannot find the tenant after reasonable effort, the money becomes the landlord's 180 days after it was mailed, so keep the landlord informed of your current address.
- Statute text was read on the Justia and FindLaw mirrors (2024 Arkansas Code); the official Arkansas Code is published only through LexisNexis. The 2025 regular session acts were checked and none amended these sections.
If the deadline has passed
Send a written demand letter. State the dates and amounts, the law and the deadline, and a date by which you expect payment. Keep proof that you sent it.
If they still don't pay, you can file in small claims court. The limit in Arkansas is $5,000 in the small claims division of district court, and the filing fee is Usually between $30 and $65, plus the cost of serving the defendant.
Steps
- Find your move-out date and deposit amount
- Work out when the clock started: The clock starts when you move out and hand back possession of the unit
- Count 60 days from that date to find the deadline
- Send a written demand letter citing the law
- File in small claims court if unpaid
Common questions
When does the clock start in Arkansas?
The clock starts when you move out and hand back possession of the unit.
What if I got part of my deposit back?
You can still ask for the rest. Your claim is the deposit minus what was returned and minus any deductions you agree were allowed.
Can I get more than my deposit back?
Possibly. Arkansas law allows a court to award the money due plus damages equal to two times the amount wrongfully withheld, with costs and reasonable attorney's fees, unless the landlord proves the error happened despite reasonable procedures or was a good-faith dispute over the amount due. A judge decides; it is not guaranteed.
Do I need a lawyer?
Not usually. Small claims court in Arkansas is designed for people without lawyers. For advice about your situation, talk to a licensed attorney.