Ohio Security Deposit Limits: How Much Can a Landlord Charge?
Ohio doesn't cap deposit amounts by statute, but return deadlines still apply. Use this free Ohio security deposit limit calculator to track yours.
Rent & Deposit Amounts
In Ohio, security deposits are not capped by statute. Enter your numbers to check.
How Does It Work?
Enter Amounts
Your monthly rent and the deposit your landlord charged.
Timeline
Tell us if you've moved out so we can check the return deadline.
Legal Analysis
We check the deposit limit and calculate the exact return date.
How Much Can a Landlord Charge for a Security Deposit in Ohio?
Legal basis: Ohio R.C. 5321.16(A) & (B).
How Ohio Security Deposit Rules Work
Ohio is unusual among the states we cover: there is no statutory cap on the security deposit amount. Your landlord can legally charge two, three, or even more months' rent as a security deposit. However, this doesn't mean Ohio leaves tenants unprotected — the state regulates what happens to that money after it's collected.
Under Ohio Revised Code § 5321.16, landlords must return the deposit within 30 days of move-out, with an itemized list of any deductions. An important threshold applies to interest: if the deposit exceeds $50 or one month's rent (whichever is greater), and the tenant stays for at least 6 months, the landlord must pay 5% annual interest on the deposit.
Ohio also has strong protections around what constitutes a legitimate deduction. The law distinguishes between "normal wear and tear" (which the landlord cannot deduct for) and actual damage caused by the tenant. This distinction is one of the most common sources of deposit disputes in Ohio.
Example: Ohio Deposit Interest Threshold
Your monthly rent is $1,200 and your landlord collected $1,800 as a security deposit. You've lived in the unit for 8 months.
Your landlord owes you $60.00 in interest on top of the deposit, for a total of $1,860.00 due within 30 days of move-out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a limit on security deposits in Ohio? ▼
No. Ohio does not have a statutory cap on security deposit amounts. Your landlord can legally charge any amount as a security deposit, regardless of your monthly rent. However, the landlord must return the deposit within 30 days of move-out, and deposits exceeding $50 or one month's rent (whichever is greater) must accrue 5% annual interest after 6 months of tenancy.
What is considered normal wear and tear in a rental in Ohio? ▼
Normal wear and tear includes minor scuff marks on walls, small nail holes from hanging pictures, faded or slightly worn carpet from foot traffic, and gently worn countertops. These are expected results of ordinary living and the landlord cannot deduct for them. Tenant damage — large holes, pet stains, broken fixtures, unauthorized alterations — is deductible.
Is having to paint a reason to keep a security deposit in Ohio? ▼
It depends on why repainting is needed. If the walls simply faded or have minor scuffs after normal occupancy (especially after 3+ years), that's normal wear and tear — the landlord cannot deduct for it. But if you painted the walls an unauthorized color, caused heavy smoke staining, or left large holes, the landlord can deduct reasonable repainting costs.
How long does an Ohio landlord have to return my security deposit? ▼
Under Ohio Revised Code § 5321.16, the landlord must return your security deposit within 30 days of the termination of the rental agreement. They must include an itemized list of any deductions. Failure to comply may entitle you to double (2×) damages.
Stay informed about your rights
Get notified when RGB rates change, new tenant protection laws pass, or important deadlines approach.
No spam, ever. Unsubscribe anytime.
More MyRentVerify Tools for Ohio
All calculators use verified 2026 legal data for Ohio.
Ohio Rent Increase Calculator
Check if your rent increase is legal and review local rent control caps.
Open for Ohio →Ohio Deposit Interest Calculator
Calculate the interest your landlord owes on your security deposit.
Open for Ohio →Ohio Late Fee Calculator
Check if your landlord is overcharging you on late fees.
Open for Ohio →Ohio Lease Break Calculator
Estimate your liability for breaking a lease and understand the duty to mitigate.
Open for Ohio →Ohio Rent Calculator
Calculate prorated rent for mid-month move-in or move-out.
Open for Ohio →Looking for another state?
We have deposit limit calculators for multiple states.