2025 Session Last amended: 1986 session

§ 336.2-718 — Liquidation or Limitation of Damages; Deposits

Plain-Language Summary

A sales contract can set a reasonable amount of liquidated damages (a pre-set penalty for breach). A term setting unreasonably large damages is void. If the buyer breaches and has prepaid, the buyer can get back payments minus any damages owed to the seller or $500, whichever is less.

Practical Notes
Contracts can include a pre-set penalty for breach, but it must be reasonable. If you are a buyer who backs out, you can get most of your prepayment back.