The rule in Michigan
Michigan limits a residential security deposit to 1.5 months' rent. The wording in MCL 554.602, 554.609: “shall not exceed 1 1/2 months' rent.”
The return deadline is 30 days, counted after occupancy ends (deadline for the itemized list of damages). The text reads: “within 30 days after the termination of occupancy.”
Of the 44 jurisdictions verified here, 15 give landlords less time and 9 give more; the median is 30 days. 19 others also allow 30 days, among them Iowa, Kansas, Maine and Massachusetts.
What the cap means in dollars: $1,000 rent: up to $1,500, $1,500 rent: up to $2,250 and $2,000 rent: up to $3,000.
Worked date: if the clock starts on November 30, 2026, the deadline falls on December 30, 2026.
In neighbouring states with verified rules: Indiana allows 45 days and sets no cap, Ohio allows 30 days and sets no cap and Wisconsin allows 21 days and sets no cap.
If a deposit is not returned, the small claims limit in Michigan is $7,000 (small claims rules); at the cap, a full-deposit claim fits whenever rent is $4,666 a month or less.
Sources: Michigan Legislature, MCL 554.602; Michigan Legislature, MCL 554.609 · last checked October 20, 2026.
If the deposit does not come back
The statute above sets the deadline; what happens after it passes is covered in general terms in the guide on a deposit that is not returned, and the way each state starts and counts the clock is compared in how deposit deadlines are counted.
Questions
How much can a landlord charge as a security deposit in Michigan?
1.5 months' rent, under MCL 554.602, 554.609.
How long does a landlord in Michigan have to return a deposit?
30 days: “within 30 days after the termination of occupancy” (MCL 554.602, 554.609).
When does the Michigan deadline start?
The clock runs after occupancy ends (deadline for the itemized list of damages).