DisputeKit

DisputeKit / Oklahoma

How long does a Oklahoma landlord have to return a security deposit?

45 days. Under Oklahoma Statutes, Title 41, § 115, a landlord must return the balance of the security deposit, with a written itemized statement of any amounts kept for rent or damages within 45 days. The clock starts when you move out and hand back possession of the unit.

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 45 days only start once the tenancy has ended, the tenant has returned possession, and the tenant has made a written demand for the deposit; if the demand came after move-out, the deadline is 45 days after the demand.
  • If the tenant makes no written demand within six months after the tenancy ends, the deposit goes to the landlord.

What Oklahoma law says about deductions and your rights

  • Make a written demand for the deposit as soon as you move out; the deadline does not start without it.
  • Deductions are limited to accrued rent and damages from the tenant's noncompliance with the law or the rental agreement, as itemized by the landlord.
  • The statute lets the tenant recover the deposit and does not set a multiple; other damages under the landlord-tenant act are not excluded.

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 Oklahoma is $10,000, and the filing fee is Varies by county and claim amount; ask the district court clerk.

Steps

  1. Find your move-out date and deposit amount
  2. Work out when the clock started: The clock starts when you move out and hand back possession of the unit
  3. Count 45 days from that date to find the deadline
  4. Send a written demand letter citing the law
  5. File in small claims court if unpaid

See a full sample letter for Oklahoma

Common questions

When does the clock start in Oklahoma?

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.

Do I need a lawyer?

Not usually. Small claims court in Oklahoma is designed for people without lawyers. For advice about your situation, talk to a licensed attorney.