Ohio Security Deposit Law (2026): Deadlines, Interest & Penalties
Under Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.16, an Ohio landlord must return a tenant's security deposit within 30 days of move-out and must pay interest of 5% per year in certain situations (deposit exceeding $50 or 1 month's rent, held 6+ months). Fail to comply, and the tenant may recover 2x wrongfully withheld + attorney fees. Plug your lease dates and deposit amount into the calculator above for a statute-based breakdown.
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Ohio Deposit Rules at a Glance
| Return deadline | 30 days after move-out Standard deadline applies. |
|---|---|
| Interest on deposit | Conditional — 5% per year Deposit exceeding $50 or 1 month's rent, held 6+ months |
| Separate account required | No |
| Deposit limit | No limit |
| Penalty for violations | 2x wrongfully withheld + attorney fees Attorney fees / court costs may also be recoverable |
Ohio Security Deposit FAQ
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Ohio?
In Ohio, a landlord must return the security deposit within 30 days after the tenancy ends, under Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.16. Note: Standard deadline applies..
Does my landlord owe me interest on my security deposit in Ohio?
Under Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.16, an Ohio landlord must pay interest of 5% per year in certain situations (deposit exceeding $50 or 1 month's rent, held 6+ months). Rate details: 5% simple interest per year.
What is the penalty if a landlord misses the deposit deadline in Ohio?
2x wrongfully withheld + attorney fees. The tenant may also be able to recover attorney fees or court costs. The governing statute is Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.16.
Is there a limit on how much a landlord can charge as a security deposit in Ohio?
Yes. In Ohio, the security deposit is limited to No limit.
Does an Ohio landlord have to keep my deposit in a separate account?
No. Ohio law does not require landlords to hold security deposits in a separate or escrow account.
Are there exceptions to the 30-day deposit deadline in Ohio?
Yes — the deadline can vary: Standard deadline applies.. When in doubt, check the statute itself (Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.16) or ask a local tenant-rights organization.
When does the interest requirement apply in Ohio?
Interest applies under these conditions: Deposit exceeding $50 or 1 month's rent, held 6+ months. See Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.16 for the full rule.
What can I do if my landlord won't return my deposit in Ohio?
First, send a written demand letter citing Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.16 — our free generator creates one with your amounts filled in. If the landlord still doesn't pay, you can usually file in small claims court, where the penalty exposure is 2x wrongfully withheld + attorney fees.