Arkansas · Security deposit

Arkansas security deposit law

Arkansas landlords have 60 days to return a security deposit after you move out. The deposit can’t be more than 2 months’ rent.

The rule

Deposit limit
2 months’ rent
Return deadline
60 days
Interest owed
Not required
Itemized deductions
Required
The limit
The deposit rules do not apply to individual landlords who own 5 or fewer units, unless a third party manages the units for a fee.
The deadline
Within 60 days after the tenancy ends and possession is delivered; mailing to the tenant’s last known address complies.
Interest
State law doesn’t require interest on the deposit.
Deductions
The landlord must give you an itemized list of anything kept from the deposit.
If it isn’t returned
Tenant may recover the amount due plus twice the amount wrongfully withheld, costs, and attorney’s fees; liability is limited to the sum withheld plus costs for bona fide errors or good-faith disputes.

Law: Ark. Code §§ 18-16-303 to 18-16-306

Last reviewed September 30, 2026

Not legal advice. Statutes change; check the linked section.