Missouri Law: Plain-English Guides

Key Missouri facts

Security deposit deadline

Within 30 days after the tenancy ends, the landlord must return the full deposit or send an itemized list of damages along with any remaining balance. RSMo 535.300.3

Eviction notice for unpaid rent

No fixed pay-or-quit notice period. Landlord must demand the rent; if it is unpaid, landlord may file a rent-and-possession statement. RSMo 535.020

Small claims limit

$5,000, not counting interest and costs, in tort or contract cases. A plaintiff with a larger claim may still file in small claims but gives up any amount over $5,000, now and in any later case on the same issues. RSMo 482.305; RSMo 482.315

Small estate affidavit

If the entire estate, less liens, debts and encumbrances, is $40,000 or less, a distributee (or the personal representative named in a will) may file a small estate affidavit with the probate division at least 30 days… RSMo § 473.097

Cost of a protective order

Free. No filing fees, court costs or bond may be charged to the petitioner. The court may order the respondent to pay court costs. RSMo §455.027; §455.050.3(11)

Minimum wage

$15.00 per hour since January 1, 2026. Retail and service businesses with annual gross income under $500,000 are not covered by the state minimum wage. RSMo 290.502.3; Missouri Division of Labor Standards minimum wage page

Final paycheck if fired

Unpaid wages are due on the day of discharge. If the employee asks in writing for the pay to be sent and it does not arrive within 7 days, the employee's wages continue as a penalty for up to 60 days. RSMo 290.110

Time limit to sue on a debt

10 years for an action on a writing that promises to pay money. 5 years for other contract actions, including oral agreements. RSMo 516.110(1); RSMo 516.120(1)