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Illinois security deposit law: deadline, deductions and penalties

Quick answer

In Illinois, a landlord has 30 days to return the security deposit or send an itemized list of deductions (765 ILCS 710/1). Under Illinois law, a landlord who wrongfully keeps a deposit can owe up to twice the amount withheld.

Checked against the statute on October 29, 2026.

30

days for an Illinois landlord to return the deposit or itemize deductions

The deadline

To keep any part of the deposit, the landlord must give an itemized statement of damage, with paid receipts or estimates, within 30 days. Without one, the full deposit is due within 45 days.

What the landlord must send you

An itemized statement of alleged damage with the estimated or actual cost of each repair, and copies of paid receipts.

If the landlord misses the deadline

Without a timely itemized statement and receipts, the landlord must return the full deposit within 45 days of move-out (765 ILCS 710/1(a)).

Penalty for wrongful withholding

A landlord who fails to supply the itemized statement, or supplies it in bad faith, and fails to return the deposit on time is liable for twice the amount of the deposit due, plus court costs and reasonable attorney's fees (765 ILCS 710/1(c)).

Read the law

Summary checked against the statute on October 29, 2026. Not legal advice; laws change, so confirm with the source before relying on it.

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Illinois security deposit FAQ

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Illinois?

To keep any part of the deposit, the landlord must give an itemized statement of damage, with paid receipts or estimates, within 30 days. Without one, the full deposit is due within 45 days.

What must an Illinois landlord send when keeping part of the deposit?

An itemized statement of alleged damage with the estimated or actual cost of each repair, and copies of paid receipts.

What happens if an Illinois landlord misses the deadline?

Without a timely itemized statement and receipts, the landlord must return the full deposit within 45 days of move-out (765 ILCS 710/1(a)).

What is the penalty for wrongfully keeping a security deposit in Illinois?

A landlord who fails to supply the itemized statement, or supplies it in bad faith, and fails to return the deposit on time is liable for twice the amount of the deposit due, plus court costs and reasonable attorney's fees (765 ILCS 710/1(c)).

How do I get my security deposit back in Illinois?

Give your landlord a forwarding address in writing, wait for the 30 days deadline, then send a demand letter by certified mail that cites 765 ILCS 710/1 and sets a payment date. If the landlord still doesn't pay, you can file in small claims court in the county where the rental is located.

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