Illinois Security Deposit Law (2026): Deadlines, Interest & Penalties
Under 765 ILCS 710 & 765 ILCS 715, an Illinois landlord must return a tenant's security deposit within 45 days of move-out and must pay interest of Required only for landlords with 25+ units, deposit held 6+ months; rate = largest IL bank's savings rate in certain situations (required only for landlords with 25+ units, deposit held 6+ months; rate = largest il bank's savings rate). Fail to comply, and the tenant may recover 2x deposit + attorney fees (Security Deposit Return Act). Plug your lease dates and deposit amount into the calculator above for a statute-based breakdown.
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Illinois Deposit Rules at a Glance
| Return deadline | 45 days after move-out Itemized statement within 30 days; refund within 45 days |
|---|---|
| Interest on deposit | Conditional — Required only for landlords with 25+ units, deposit held 6+ months; rate = largest IL bank's savings rate Required only for landlords with 25+ units, deposit held 6+ months; rate = largest IL bank's savings rate |
| Separate account required | No |
| Deposit limit | No statewide limit |
| Penalty for violations | 2x deposit + attorney fees (Security Deposit Return Act) Attorney fees / court costs may also be recoverable |
Illinois Security Deposit FAQ
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Illinois?
In Illinois, a landlord must return the security deposit within 45 days after the tenancy ends, under 765 ILCS 710 & 765 ILCS 715. Note: Itemized statement within 30 days; refund within 45 days.
Does my landlord owe me interest on my security deposit in Illinois?
Under 765 ILCS 710 & 765 ILCS 715, an Illinois landlord must pay interest of Required only for landlords with 25+ units, deposit held 6+ months; rate = largest IL bank's savings rate in certain situations (required only for landlords with 25+ units, deposit held 6+ months; rate = largest il bank's savings rate). Rate details: Required only for landlords with 25+ units, deposit held 6+ months; rate = largest IL bank's savings rate.
What is the penalty if a landlord misses the deposit deadline in Illinois?
2x deposit + attorney fees (Security Deposit Return Act). The tenant may also be able to recover attorney fees or court costs. The governing statute is 765 ILCS 710 & 765 ILCS 715.
Is there a limit on how much a landlord can charge as a security deposit in Illinois?
Yes. In Illinois, the security deposit is limited to No statewide limit.
Does an Illinois landlord have to keep my deposit in a separate account?
No. Illinois law does not require landlords to hold security deposits in a separate or escrow account.
Are there exceptions to the 45-day deposit deadline in Illinois?
Yes — the deadline can vary: Itemized statement within 30 days; refund within 45 days. When in doubt, check the statute itself (765 ILCS 710 & 765 ILCS 715) or ask a local tenant-rights organization.
When does the interest requirement apply in Illinois?
Interest applies under these conditions: Required only for landlords with 25+ units, deposit held 6+ months; rate = largest IL bank's savings rate. See 765 ILCS 710 & 765 ILCS 715 for the full rule.
What can I do if my landlord won't return my deposit in Illinois?
First, send a written demand letter citing 765 ILCS 710 & 765 ILCS 715 — our free generator creates one with your amounts filled in. If the landlord still doesn't pay, you can usually file in small claims court, where the penalty exposure is 2x deposit + attorney fees (security deposit return act).