Oklahoma security deposit rules
Oklahoma sets no statutory limit on the size of a security deposit. The deposit must be returned balance returned without interest within 45 days after termination of the tenancy, delivery of possession, and the tenant's written demand, with an itemised list of any deductions. No interest is owed on the deposit under state law.
What the law requires
No statutory limit. Returned Balance returned without interest within 45 days after termination of the tenancy, delivery of possession, and the tenant's written demand. Deposit must be kept in an escrow account at a federally insured institution in Oklahoma; tenant forfeits the deposit if no written demand is made within six months after termination. § 115 confirmed from the 2022 code text (Justia mirror via Wayback); §§ 111, 131 and 132 confirmed from the 2024-2025 Justia text.
- Deductions: unpaid rent and damage beyond normal wear and tear, itemised in writing. Cleaning and repainting after ordinary use are normal wear in most states.
- Deadline: the 45-day clock usually starts when the tenant moves out and, in many states, when a forwarding address is provided. Missing it typically forfeits the landlord’s right to keep any of the deposit and can add statutory damages.
- Interest: none required under state law. Cities in some no-interest states have their own ordinances, so check the municipal code where you rent.
Move-out checklist
- Give written notice of the move-out date and a forwarding address; many deadlines only start when the landlord has the address.
- Photograph every room after cleaning, with a timestamp. Request a joint inspection where the state allows one.
- If the deadline passes, send a written demand citing 41 Okla. Stat. § 115. Small-claims court handles deposit disputes in every state and most cap the claim well above a typical deposit.
Related Oklahoma rules
- Late fees: No statutory cap or grace period for residential late fees in Oklahoma; the lease controls. Late fee calculator.
- Notice to end a tenancy: At least 30 days' written notice by either party (7 days for tenancies shorter than month-to-month) Notice calculator.
- All rules on one page: Oklahoma landlord and tenant law.
Frequently asked questions
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Oklahoma?
There is no statutory cap in Oklahoma; the market and the lease decide. Deposit must be kept in an escrow account at a federally insured institution in Oklahoma; tenant forfeits the deposit if no written demand is made within six months after termination. § 115 confirmed from the 2022 code text (Justia mirror via Wayback); §§ 111, 131 and 132 confirmed from the 2024-2025 Justia text.
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Oklahoma?
Balance returned without interest within 45 days after termination of the tenancy, delivery of possession, and the tenant's written demand. The statute is 41 Okla. Stat. § 115.
Does a Oklahoma landlord have to pay interest on the security deposit?
No. Oklahoma law does not require interest on residential security deposits.