Oregon Law: Plain-English Guides

Key Oregon facts

Security deposit deadline

31 days after the tenancy terminates and the tenant delivers possession. ORS 90.300(12)-(13)

Eviction notice for unpaid rent

Week-to-week: at least 72 hours' written notice, served no sooner than the 5th day of the rental period. ORS 90.394

Small claims limit

$10,000 (including the value of any property claimed). Claims of $750 or less must be filed in small claims (unless a statute allows attorney fees); ORS 46.405(2)-(5)

Small estate affidavit

Oregon calls this a 'simple estate affidavit,' filed with the probate court clerk. It may be used if no more than $75,000 of the estate's fair market value is personal property (other than manufactured homes) and no… ORS 114.505 to 114.560 (esp. ORS 114.510, 114.515, 114.540)

Cost of a protective order

There is no filing fee, service fee or hearing fee for a case seeking only FAPA relief, and the clerk gives you the copies needed for service free of charge. ORS 107.718(8)(a), (c)

Minimum wage

Depends on where you work. From July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027: $16.80 per hour inside the Portland metro urban growth boundary; ORS 653.025

Final paycheck if fired

By the end of the next business day after being fired or laid off (also by the next business day when employer and worker mutually agree to end the job). ORS 652.140; ORS 652.150

Time limit to sue on a debt

6 years for an action on a contract or liability, express or implied. Oregon uses the same period for written and oral contracts. ORS 12.080(1)