Arkansas Deposit Mailing, Forwarding Address and Move-Out Inspection Rules
An Arkansas deposit comes back by mail, to your last known address. Here is what to send when you move out, what the 180-day rule means if the payment is returned and what the statute leaves out about inspections.
Where does the Arkansas landlord mail the refund?
To the tenant’s last known address. The landlord is deemed to comply with the 60-day rule by mailing the written notice and any payment by first class mail to that address (Ark. Code 18-16-305(b)(1)). The deposit sections we read do not make a forwarding address in writing a condition of the refund, but giving one removes any doubt.
What should a tenant send when moving out?
A short, dated message that gives the address for the refund: “I moved out of [rental address] and returned possession on [date]. Please mail my deposit and any itemized notice to [new address].” Send it by a method that leaves a record, such as certified mail or an e-mail the landlord has answered, and keep a copy.
What happens if the payment comes back?
If the letter containing the payment is returned to the landlord and the landlord is unable to locate the tenant after reasonable effort, the payment becomes the property of the landlord 180 days from the date it was mailed (305(b)(2)). Tell the landlord in writing if your address changes.
Does Arkansas require a move-out inspection?
The deposit sections we read do not mention a move-out inspection, a walk-through or a move-in checklist. That is not a reason to skip them: dated move-in and move-out photographs and any condition checklist in your lease are the best evidence if a deduction is disputed.
Does the landlord have to keep the deposit in a separate account?
The deposit sections we read do not require a separate or interest-bearing account, and they do not mention interest. Ask the landlord in writing where the deposit is held if it matters to you.
What if my landlord is exempt?
The subchapter does not apply to units owned by an individual who, with family and related entities, owns five or fewer dwelling units, unless a third person manages them for a fee (18-16-303). Then your lease is the main source of rules. See the 60-day deadline and the Arkansas deposit deadline calculator.
A checklist before you move out
Photograph every room; keep your lease and any move-in checklist; give the landlord your new mailing address in writing; return the keys and note the date; and calendar the 60-day deadline with the Arkansas security deposit return deadline calculator.
How the timeline fits together
| When | What happens |
|---|---|
| Tenancy ends and possession is delivered | The 60 days start |
| Day 60 | Last day for the landlord to mail the itemized notice and any payment by first class mail |
| If the letter comes back | The landlord must make reasonable effort to locate the tenant |
| 180 days from the mailing | A returned payment the landlord cannot deliver becomes the landlord’s |
What the itemized notice should show
The statute asks for a written notice that itemizes the accrued unpaid rent and the damages, delivered with the remainder of the amount due (18-16-305(a)(2)). A useful notice names each deduction and its amount and shows how the remainder was figured. Keep a copy and proof of the mailing date, because mailing is what counts as compliance.
Why a current address matters
Mailing is what counts as compliance, so the notice and payment go to the address the landlord has on file. If you move and do not update it, a payment that is returned and cannot be delivered after reasonable effort becomes the landlord’s 180 days after it was mailed. Send your new address in writing and keep proof.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to give my Arkansas landlord a forwarding address?
The deposit sections do not make it a condition, but the landlord mails the notice to your last known address, so giving a current one is the safe course.
Where does the landlord mail the deposit refund?
By first class mail to the tenant’s last known address.
What if the refund is returned undelivered?
If the landlord cannot locate the tenant after reasonable effort, the payment becomes the landlord’s 180 days after it was mailed.
Does Arkansas require a move-out inspection?
The deposit sections do not mention one; check your lease.
Does Arkansas require interest on deposits?
The deposit sections we read say nothing about interest.
Official sources
- Ark. Code 18-16-305(b): mailing and returned payments
- Ark. Code 18-16-303: exemption for certain dwelling units
A local landlord-tenant attorney can review your situation — many offer a free consultation.
This is general information, not legal advice. It is based on the cited Arkansas statutes, rules and court opinions, and every case turns on its own facts. Confirm how the law applies to your situation with a licensed Arkansas attorney.