Deposit return deadline · Illinois
Illinois: return the deposit within 30 days
In Illinois, a landlord must return a tenant's security deposit — or account for what's being kept — within an itemized statement of deductions within 30 days, and the balance of the deposit within 45 days of move-out. The rule is Illinois Security Deposit Return Act (765 ILCS 710).
Deducting? The paperwork rules
If you deduct, the itemized statement with estimated or actual costs is due within 30 days; paid receipts within 30 days after that statement.
The clean way to do this is a written letter with the deduction list and the ledger behind it — the deposit return letter template produces one, and a current rent ledger is the difference between documenting and reconstructing.
What missing the deadline costs
Bad-faith withholding can cost twice the deposit plus court costs and attorney's fees.
Since January 1, 2024 (P.A. 103-0224), the Act covers EVERY residential rental in Illinois — the old 5-or-more-units threshold is gone, so single-family rentals are fully covered. Chicago's RLTO and the Cook County RTLO have their own, stricter rules — landlords there should read the ordinance, not this page.
Never discover this deadline late
The return clock starts the day the tenancy ends — which means it's knowable weeks in advance. A free RentChime account tracks your lease dates and emails you before deadlines like this one arrive.
Not legal advice. This is a summary for general information, not legal advice. The statute linked above is the authority; cities can add stricter rules, and laws change. If a deposit is disputed, talk to a local attorney.
Common questions
When does the 30-day clock start?
Generally when the tenancy ends and the tenant has moved out. The statute linked above defines the trigger precisely.
Can I deduct for normal wear and tear?
No state allows deductions for ordinary wear and tear — deductions are for damage beyond it, unpaid rent, and other charges the lease and statute allow, itemized in writing.
What if I miss the deadline in good faith?
Penalties generally attach to bad-faith withholding, but missing the deadline can forfeit your right to keep any of the deposit even without bad faith. The safe play is the letter, itemized, on time.