Montana Security Deposit Laws

Montana has no statutory cap on security deposits but requires landlords to return them within 10 days (if no damage claimed) or 30 days (if damage is claimed) after the tenancy ends.

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Key Rules

Limit
No statutory cap
Return Deadline
10 days (no damage) or 30 days (damage claimed)
Interest Required
No
Itemization Required
Yes — written itemized statement required
Penalty For Wrongful Withholding
Landlord liable for actual damages caused by wrongful withholding

Applicable Statutes

Mont. Code Ann. § 70-25-101

Security deposit return: landlord must return the security deposit, with itemized deductions, within 10 days after tenancy ends (or 30 days if the tenant caused damage). No statutory cap on deposit amount.

Mont. Code Ann. § 70-25-202

Penalty for wrongful withholding: landlord who wrongfully withholds the deposit may be liable for the amount wrongfully withheld plus damages.

Legal Aid Resources

Read the Full Security Deposit Laws Guide

Our comprehensive guide covers federal law, common defenses, real-world examples, and what to do if your rights are being violated.

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