Illinois Small Claims
Illinois filing basics for renter claims, consumer disputes, contractor disputes, unpaid wages, and property damage cases.
General Information Only: This page provides general educational information as of January 2025. Court rules and fees change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local Circuit Court or the Illinois Courts website.
Illinois
Circuit Courts - Small Claims Division
Start with the Illinois path that fits your dispute
These five claim tracks are the main audience paths we are optimizing. Use the matching guide, then verify Illinois limits, fees, and county court details below.
Illinois rental money disputes
Start with renter guidance, then verify Illinois limits, venue rules, and county court details on this page.
ConsumersIllinois consumer disputes
Use the consumer guide for refunds, warranty issues, and scams, then confirm Illinois filing costs and service rules below.
ContractorsIllinois contractor claims
Use the contractor guide for bad workmanship and unfinished jobs, then match the claim to the right Illinois court.
WorkersIllinois wage-related claims
Use the wage guide to organize unpaid paycheck issues, then confirm whether Illinois small claims is the right venue.
Property ownersIllinois property damage claims
Use the property-damage guide for vehicle, home, and belongings damage, then verify Illinois claim caps and local court procedures.
$10,000
Statewide limit
$15-$50
Varies by county
Allowed
But not required
Available
Cook County
Key Information
1Circuit Courts
- 23 judicial circuits statewide
- Each county has a Circuit Clerk
- Cook County has special rules
- Simplified procedures available
2Who Can File
- Individuals 18 or older
- Businesses and corporations
- Must sue in proper venue
- No claim limit frequency
Common Case Types
Security Deposits
Landlord-tenant disputes
Property Damage
Auto, neighbor issues
Unpaid Services
Work not compensated
Contract Disputes
Broken agreements
Consumer Issues
Defective products
Personal Loans
Money not repaid
Statutes of Limitations
You must file your claim within these time limits from when the issue occurred:
Filing Process Overview
Complete Complaint Form
Fill out small claims complaint from Circuit Clerk
File with Clerk
Submit to Circuit Court Clerk and pay filing fee
Get Summons Issued
Court issues summons for defendant
Serve the Defendant
Sheriff, process server, or special methods
Attend Hearing
Present your case with evidence and witnesses
Chicago / Cook County
Cook County (Chicago area) has its own Pro Se Court designed for self-represented litigants. The process is streamlined and staff can help with forms and procedures.
Cook County Small ClaimsOfficial Resources
Find Your Circuit Court
Illinois has 102 counties organized into 23 judicial circuits. Find the court for your area.
View Illinois CountiesLegal Disclaimer
This information is provided for general educational purposes only and may be outdated. Laws and procedures change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local Circuit Court or consult a licensed attorney. This is not legal advice. See our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.