Skip to content
DepositClaimNow

Oklahoma security deposit law: deadline, deductions and penalties

Quick answer

In Oklahoma, a landlord has 45 days to return the security deposit or send an itemized list of deductions (41 Okla. Stat. § 115). Under Oklahoma law, the tenant can recover the amount wrongfully withheld, and the court may award costs or attorney's fees.

Checked against the statute on October 29, 2026.

45

days for an Oklahoma landlord to return the deposit or itemize deductions

The deadline

Within 45 days after the tenancy ends, the tenant delivers possession and makes a written demand, the landlord must return the deposit balance with an itemized written statement of deductions.

What the landlord must send you

An itemized written statement of deductions, delivered in person or by mail with return receipt requested.

Penalty for wrongful withholding

If the landlord doesn't comply, the tenant may recover the deposit and any prepaid rent (41 Okla. Stat. § 115(E)).

Your forwarding address

In Oklahoma you must make a written demand for the deposit within six months after the tenancy ends, or it reverts to the landlord (41 Okla. Stat. § 115). The demand letter is that written demand.

Read the law

Summary checked against the statute on October 29, 2026. Not legal advice; laws change, so confirm with the source before relying on it.

Free deposit check

Five quick answers. No sign-up. Takes about a minute.

Did the landlord send you a written, itemized list of deductions?

Oklahoma security deposit FAQ

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

Within 45 days after the tenancy ends, the tenant delivers possession and makes a written demand, the landlord must return the deposit balance with an itemized written statement of deductions.

What must an Oklahoma landlord send when keeping part of the deposit?

An itemized written statement of deductions, delivered in person or by mail with return receipt requested.

What is the penalty for wrongfully keeping a security deposit in Oklahoma?

If the landlord doesn't comply, the tenant may recover the deposit and any prepaid rent (41 Okla. Stat. § 115(E)).

Do I need to give my Oklahoma landlord a forwarding address?

In Oklahoma you must make a written demand for the deposit within six months after the tenancy ends, or it reverts to the landlord (41 Okla. Stat. § 115). The demand letter is that written demand.

How do I get my security deposit back in Oklahoma?

Give your landlord a forwarding address in writing, wait for the 45 days deadline, then send a demand letter by certified mail that cites 41 Okla. Stat. § 115 and sets a payment date. If the landlord still doesn't pay, you can file in small claims court in the county where the rental is located.

Related guides

Other states