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Montana Security Deposit Timeline

Step-by-step deposit lifecycle from collection to return.

Montana law governs how landlords collect, hold, and return security deposits. The timeline below outlines the deposit lifecycle in chronological order — from move-in limits and pet deposits to deductions, itemization, interest, and the final return deadline.

Security Deposit Timeline

  1. Maximum Deposit

    No statutory limit

  2. Pet Deposit Rules

    No separate statutory pet deposit limit.

  3. Allowed Deductions

    Damage beyond normal wear and tear, unpaid rent, late fees, landlord's labor charges, unpaid utilities, and other lease violation costs.

  4. Itemized Statement

    Yes — landlords must provide a written itemized list of any deductions.

  5. Interest Required

    No — state law does not require interest on deposits.

  6. Return Deadline

    30 days (10 days if no deductions)

Related Resources

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