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

45 days after the tenant moves out if nothing is deducted; deductions must be itemized within 30 days (buildings of five or more units) (765 ILCS 710 (Security Deposit Return Act); 765 ILCS 715 (Security Deposit Interest Act)).

Illinois security deposit law

Q: How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Illinois?

No statutory limit (765 ILCS 710 (Security Deposit Return Act); 765 ILCS 715 (Security Deposit Interest Act)).

The state rules a landlord in Illinois has to follow for a residential security deposit, from 765 ILCS 710 (Security Deposit Return Act); 765 ILCS 715 (Security Deposit Interest Act).

Maximum deposit: No statutory limit
Deadline to return it: 45 days after the tenant moves out if nothing is deducted; deductions must be itemized within 30 days (buildings of five or more units).
Itemized deductions: An itemized statement of damages with estimated or actual repair costs and paid receipts, within 30 days after the tenant moves out.
Interest on the deposit: Only for buildings of 25 or more units, on deposits held six months or more; paid or credited every 12 months at a rate set yearly.
Penalty for wrongful withholding: Bad-faith or missed deadlines: twice the deposit plus court costs and attorney fees.

Before you keep any part of a deposit

Compare the unit with the move-in inspection and photos. Normal wear and tear is generally not chargeable.
Keep receipts or written estimates for every deduction.
Send the return or the itemized list within the deadline above, to the tenant's forwarding address, and keep proof of mailing.

Working out the last month's rent? The prorated rent calculator does the partial-month math.

Source

Verification status: verified summary. Research date: November 5, 2026. Statute: 765 ILCS 710 (Security Deposit Return Act); 765 ILCS 715 (Security Deposit Interest Act). Source: illinoisattorneygeneral.gov.

General information, not legal advice. Cities and counties can add stricter rules, and laws change. Check the current statute or a local attorney before you act.

Other states: Florida · Indiana · all states

Last updated November 5, 2026.