Illinois Eviction Timeline Estimator

Illinois eviction timeline at a glance

A typical Illinois nonpayment eviction (forcible entry and detainer) runs 30 to 60 days from notice to writ of possession. The nonpayment notice period is 5 days under 735 ILCS 5/9-209. Court process commonly adds 21 to 45 days. Cook County (Chicago) tends to run longer due to court calendar volume and tenant-protection programs.

The three phases of an Illinois eviction

Notice phase: serve a 5-day notice to pay or vacate (or appropriate notice for other grounds). Filing phase: file the eviction complaint in circuit court in the county where the property is located. Court phase: hearing scheduled, typically 20 to 45 days out, judgment, and sheriff-served writ of possession typically within 7 to 21 days of judgment.

Cook County-specific considerations

Cook County (Chicago) eviction cases routinely take 60 to 120 days due to court calendar volume, mandatory mediation programs, and tenant right-to-counsel for low-income tenants in some cases. The Chicago Just Cause for Eviction Ordinance adds procedural requirements for certain terminations.

Illinois-specific eviction rules worth knowing

Illinois requires written notice in a specific form. Errors in the notice (incorrect amount, wrong tenant name, missed service) are the most common reason cases get dismissed and have to be restarted. The 5-day notice can be served personally, by certified mail, or by posting on the premises if the tenant cannot be located.

How to use this calculator

Pick reason (nonpayment or no-cause termination) and notice date. The calculator returns Illinois's notice period, typical court process range, and earliest realistic possession date.

Frequently asked questions about Illinois eviction timelines

How long does an eviction take in Illinois?

Total timeline runs 30 to 60 days from notice to writ of possession for a nonpayment eviction. Cook County (Chicago) often runs 60 to 120 days due to court calendar volume and tenant-protection programs.

How many days notice is required to evict for nonpayment in Illinois?

Five days under 735 ILCS 5/9-209. The notice must specify the exact amount owed and demand payment in full or surrender of possession.

What is the notice period for month-to-month termination in Illinois?

30 days under 735 ILCS 5/9-207. The notice must be in writing and delivered before the start of the next rent period when termination would take effect.

What is the Chicago Just Cause for Eviction Ordinance?

A Chicago ordinance that requires landlords to have just cause (specific enumerated grounds) for terminating certain tenancies. The ordinance adds procedural requirements and may extend eviction timelines for Chicago rentals. Confirm applicability for your specific tenancy.

What court hears Illinois eviction cases?

Circuit court in the county where the property is located. For Chicago, the Forcible Entry and Detainer division of Cook County Circuit Court. Filing fees run $250 to $400 depending on county.