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Illinois Security Deposit Limits
Maximum deposit: 1.5 months' rent (for properties with 5+ units in the state; varies by local ordinance).
Statute: 765 ILCS 710/1
Full text: Read the law
Return Deadline & Requirements
30 days to return the deposit in full. If landlord withholds any portion, they have 30 days to provide an itemized statement and 45 days to return the balance with receipts.
Itemized Statement Required: Required within 30 days. Must include paid receipts or estimates for repairs within 30 days, with actual receipts due within 45 days if estimates were used.
Move-Out Inspection
No statewide statutory right, but Chicago ordinance allows it.
Allowed & Prohibited Deductions
What Landlords CAN Deduct
- Unpaid rent
- Damages beyond normal wear and tear
- Costs of repair itemized with receipts
What Landlords CANNOT Deduct
- Normal wear and tear
- Deductions without itemized statement and receipts
Penalties for Violations
Landlord Penalties: If landlord fails to comply with the return/itemization requirements, they must return the entire deposit. Tenant may also recover 2x the deposit amount plus attorney's fees in some jurisdictions.
Where to file: Small Claims Court (up to $10,000)
Interest Requirements
Required for properties with 25+ units. Interest must be paid annually or as a credit toward rent. Rate is set by the city (Chicago rate updates annually).
How to Get Your Illinois Security Deposit Back
If your landlord is withholding your deposit wrongfully, here's what to do:
- Document everything at move-out — Take photos and video of the unit's condition. Do a walkthrough if your state allows it.
- Provide your forwarding address in writing — Many states don't start the return clock until you provide this.
- Wait for the deadline to pass — Give your landlord the full 30 to 45 days required by law.
- Send a demand letter — If the deadline passes without your deposit, send a formal demand letter citing 765 ILCS 710/1.
- File in court — If the demand letter doesn't work, file in Small Claims Court (up to $10,000). You may recover additional penalties.
Get Your Security Deposit Back
Create a free demand letter for your Illinois security deposit dispute. Cites IL law automatically.
Create Free Demand LetterFrequently Asked Questions
How long does an Illinois landlord have to return a security deposit?
30 days to return the full deposit or provide an itemized statement. If deductions are made using estimates, actual receipts must be provided within 45 days.
Does my Illinois landlord have to pay interest on my deposit?
Yes, if the property has 25 or more units. In Chicago, the landlord must pay interest annually at a rate set by the city comptroller.
What happens if my Illinois landlord doesn't provide receipts?
If the landlord fails to provide an itemized statement with receipts within the required timeframe, they must return the entire deposit regardless of any actual damages.
What is the security deposit limit in Illinois?
State law caps deposits at 1.5 months' rent for properties with 5 or more units. Local ordinances may set different limits — Chicago has its own detailed rules.
More Resources: All State Guides | Security Deposit Demand Letter Guide | Demand Letter Templates