Reference: the security deposit rule in each state and covered city. To settle a deposit, use the free Deposit settlement tool.
Reference
Security deposit rules in Oregon
Oregon: return the deposit within 31 calendar days of the later of move-out and the end of the tenancy. Interest: no. Penalty if the rule is not followed (no bad faith needed): 2x the amount withheld. (Or. Rev. Stat. 90.300)
The rule in plain words
- Return by: 31 calendar days after the later of move-out and the end of the tenancy.
- Deductions allowed: unpaid rent, damage beyond wear, cleaning to move in condition, other lease obligations. Normal wear and tear never. Depreciation: none.
- Interest: No.
- Penalty: 2x the amount withheld if the rule is not followed (no bad faith needed).
- City ordinances: Portland.
The rule text
The landlord shall return to the tenant the security deposit or prepaid rent or the portion of the security deposit or prepaid rent that the landlord does not claim in the manner provided by subsections (11) and (12) of this section not later than 31 days after the tenancy terminates and the tenant delivers possession to the landlord.
Or. Rev. Stat. 90.300(13). Source: ORS 90.300 Security deposits; prepaid rent (ORS chapter 90, 2025 edition), read 2026-10-09.
Notes on this rule (1)
- Carpet cleaning deductible only with machine cleaning, carpet cleaned before move-in, and a lease clause (90.300(7)(c)(A)).
Research notes (1)
How we sourced this rule: where the text was read and what we could not check.
- Section history ends 2023 c.296 sec. 4 (2025 edition); the content of that amendment was not diffed.
Worked example
A $2,000.00 deposit; the tenant moved in on June 1, 2023 and out on September 30, 2026. Intended deductions: $300.00 unpaid rent, $150.00 cleaning and a $1,200.00 carpet that was 5 years old.
- Return by
- October 31, 2026
31 calendar days after the later of move-out and the end of the tenancy.
- Allowed deductions
- $1,650.00
Of $1,650.00 claimed.
- Refund due
- $350.00
Interest $0.00.
The draft statement for this example
DRAFT ITEMIZED STATEMENT OF SECURITY DEPOSIT Rule: Or. Rev. Stat. 90.300 (Oregon) Move-out date: September 30, 2026 Security deposit held $2,000.00 Deduction: Unpaid rent -$300.00 Deduction: Cleaning -$150.00 Deduction: Carpet -$1,200.00 Total deductions -$1,650.00 Refund due to tenant $350.00 Return by October 31, 2026 Notes: - Itemized under Or. Rev. Stat. 90.300.
Computes and cites the published rule; it is not legal advice. You sign the statement: check the statute, your lease and any local ordinance first. Read the disclaimer.