Illinois Deposit Itemization Law at a Glance
Governing Statute
765 ILCS 710/1 (Security Deposit Return Act) — Security Deposit Return Act
Itemization Requirement
Your landlord must provide an itemized statement of deductions within 30 calendar days after move-out date.
Allowable Deductions
Unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear (for properties with 5+ units, must provide paid receipts or estimates). Landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
Normal Wear & Tear
Deterioration that occurs naturally from the ordinary use of the premises by the tenant.
Penalty for Wrongful Withholding
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to double the amount wrongfully withheld (for properties with 5+ units) under 765 ILCS 710/1.
Key Facts
- Maximum deposit: No statutory limit
- Itemization required: Within 30 calendar days
- Small claims limit: $10,000
- Interest on deposit: Required by statute
Additional Protections
- Properties with 5+ units: landlord must provide paid receipts or estimates
- Interest required on deposits held more than 6 months (5+ unit properties)
- Chicago has additional local ordinances with stricter requirements
What Your Illinois Dispute Letter Includes
Every letter is built from Illinois's actual statute — not a generic template.
Itemization Requirements
765 ILCS 710/1 (Security Deposit Return Act) cited by section number. Your landlord sees you know the specific rules they must follow.
Disputed Deductions
Each disputed charge identified with your specific reasons, tied to Illinois law.
Wear & Tear Standard
Deterioration that occurs naturally from the ordinary use of the premises by the tenant...
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Illinois Deposit Itemization FAQ
What are the security deposit itemization requirements in Illinois?
Under 765 ILCS 710/1 (Security Deposit Return Act), your landlord is required to provide an itemized statement of deductions within 30 calendar days after move-out date. The itemization must list each deduction, the amount, and the reason.
What deductions can my Illinois landlord legally take from my deposit?
In Illinois, allowable deductions are limited to: Unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear (for properties with 5+ units, must provide paid receipts or estimates). Your landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
What counts as normal wear and tear in Illinois?
In Illinois: Deterioration that occurs naturally from the ordinary use of the premises by the tenant. Examples include minor scuffs on walls, worn carpet from foot traffic, faded paint, and small nail holes.
What happens if my Illinois landlord wrongfully withholds my deposit?
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to double the amount wrongfully withheld (for properties with 5+ units) under 765 ILCS 710/1. You can pursue this in small claims court.
Can I sue my landlord in small claims court in Illinois?
Yes. Illinois small claims court handles cases up to $10,000. Security deposit disputes are one of the most common small claims cases.
Do I need a lawyer to dispute deposit deductions in Illinois?
No. A dispute letter is a formal written challenge, not a lawsuit. You can send one yourself. Our tool generates a Illinois-specific dispute letter citing 765 ILCS 710/1 (Security Deposit Return Act) and your state's itemization requirements so your landlord knows you understand your rights.
Deposit Itemization Dispute Letters by State
Select your state to see your specific rights and generate your letter.