Most residential landlords require tenants to pay a security deposit to cover any repairs needed when the tenant moves out, or to cover the tenant’s failure to pay the last month's rent.

Laws vary from state to state, but many states have statutes that provide the maximum amount of security deposit a landlord may require for a residential lease and the costs for which the landlord may use the security deposit (cleaning, repairs, unpaid rent) following termination of the lease.

These laws also provide a specific deadline (often 30-60 days) for the landlord to return the tenant’s security deposit following termination of the lease—after deducting any amount properly withheld, as allowed by law.

In Mississippi, landlords can require tenants to pay a security deposit, which is typically used to cover any necessary repairs after the tenant moves out or to offset unpaid rent. Mississippi does not have a state statute that limits the maximum amount a landlord can charge for a security deposit. However, landlords are required to return the security deposit within 45 days after the tenant has moved out. The landlord must provide an itemized list of deductions for any portion of the security deposit that is withheld to cover damages beyond normal wear and tear, unpaid rent, or other costs as stipulated in the lease agreement. If a landlord fails to comply with these requirements, they may be liable to the tenant for damages, including the potential return of the full security deposit and additional penalties.