Chicago Eviction Timeline: Step-by-Step Process & Deadlines [2026]

For nonpayment of rent in Chicago, the landlord must serve a 5-Day Notice demanding payment. Under Illinois law (735 ILCS 5/9-209), the notice gives the tenant 5 days to pay rent in full or face eviction proceedings. Chicago's Residential Landlord Tenant Ordinance (RLTO) imposes additional requirements on the notice format and delivery. The notice must clearly state the amount owed and that the tenancy will terminate if payment is not made within 5 days.

• 5-day notice period for nonpayment of rent (735 ILCS 5/9-209)
• Notice must state exact amount of rent owed
• Must comply with RLTO requirements for Chicago properties
• Service by personal delivery, leaving with person 13+ at residence, or by mail
• If served by mail, add 5 additional days to the notice period
• Tenant can cure by paying full rent within the notice period

After the 5-day notice expires without payment, the landlord files a Forcible Entry and Detainer (FED) complaint in the Cook County Circuit Court. Corporations and LLCs must be represented by an attorney in eviction proceedings. The filing fee is approximately $237-$432 depending on amount claimed. The case is assigned to the First Municipal District (Daley Center) or one of the suburban district courthouses depending on property location.

• Filing fee: $237-$432 depending on amount claimed
• Filed in Cook County Circuit Court (First Municipal District for Chicago)
• Corporations and LLCs must be represented by an attorney
• Summons must be served at least 7 days before the court date
• Service by sheriff, special process server, or licensed detective
• Case typically set for first appearance 14-21 days after filing

The initial court date is typically set 14-21 days after filing. At the first appearance, the judge may enter a default judgment if the tenant fails to appear, or set the case for trial if the tenant contests. Cook County courts often encourage settlement and may refer cases to mediation. If the case goes to trial, it may take an additional 2-4 weeks to schedule. Either party can request a jury trial, which adds significant time to the process.

• First court date: 14-21 days after filing
• Default judgment if tenant fails to appear
• Continuances commonly granted (can add 2-4 weeks each)
• Mediation may be ordered or encouraged by the court
• Either party can request jury trial (adds time and cost)
• Tenant defenses: improper notice, habitability, RLTO violations, retaliation

If the court rules in the landlord's favor, a judgment for possession and any money owed is entered. The judge issues an Order of Possession, which authorizes the Cook County Sheriff to execute the eviction. The judge may grant a stay of execution (typically 7-14 days) to allow the tenant time to move. The tenant can appeal, but must post a bond to stay the eviction during the appeal period.

• Judgment includes possession, past-due rent, court costs
• Judge may grant 7-14 day stay of execution
• Tenant can appeal within 30 days (must post bond)
• Order of Possession delivered to Cook County Sheriff
• Court may award attorney fees if lease provides for them
• If tenant vacates voluntarily, sheriff eviction not needed

The Cook County Sheriff's Office executes the Order of Possession. Due to high volume in Cook County, scheduling a sheriff eviction typically takes 7-21 days after the order is received. The sheriff posts a notice on the property and returns on the scheduled date to remove the tenant. The landlord must be present (or have a representative) during the lockout. Chicago has specific rules about handling tenant belongings left behind.

• Cook County Sheriff scheduling: 7-21 days after receiving order
• Sheriff posts notice before the scheduled eviction date
• Landlord or representative must be present during lockout
• Sheriff physically removes tenant if they refuse to leave
• Tenant belongings must be handled per Chicago municipal code
• Total post-judgment timeline: 14-35 days in Cook County