How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Kentucky?

No statutory limit in KRS 383.580 (KRS 383.580 (with KRS 383.500)).

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

No fixed deadline: the landlord must notify the tenant of any refund due, and may keep it if the tenant does not respond within 60 days (KRS 383.580 (with KRS 383.500)).

Kentucky security deposit law

The state rules a landlord in Kentucky has to follow for a residential security deposit, from KRS 383.580 (with KRS 383.500).

Maximum deposit: No statutory limit in KRS 383.580.
Deadline to return it: No fixed deadline: the landlord must notify the tenant of any refund due, and may keep it if the tenant does not respond within 60 days.
Itemized deductions: Landlord and tenant must sign a damage list with repair cost estimates at move-in and again at move-out.
Interest on the deposit: Not required by state law
Penalty for wrongful withholding: Landlord cannot keep any part of the deposit if the separate account or the move-in and move-out damage lists are missing.

Before you keep any part of a deposit

Compare the unit with the move-in inspection and photos. Normal wear and tear is generally not chargeable.
Keep receipts or written estimates for every deduction.
Send the return or the itemized list within the deadline above, to the tenant's forwarding address, and keep proof of mailing.

Working out the last month's rent? The prorated rent calculator does the partial-month math.

Source

Verification status: verified summary. Research date: November 5, 2026. Statute: KRS 383.580 (with KRS 383.500). Source: apps.legislature.ky.gov.

General information, not legal advice. Cities and counties can add stricter rules, and laws change. Check the current statute or a local attorney before you act.

Other states: Kansas · Louisiana · all states

Last updated November 5, 2026.