Security Deposit Rules: Arlington Heights vs Chicago
How do security deposit rules rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Chicago, IL?
Arlington Heights has fewer restrictions than Chicago.
Arlington Heights, IL
Cook County
Cook County RTLO and the Illinois Security Deposit Return Act govern deposit handling for suburban Cook rentals: written itemization of deductions, return within statutory deadlines, and interest on deposits held over six months for larger buildings.
View full Arlington Heights rules →Chicago, IL
Cook County
Chicago's RLTO sets one of the strictest security deposit regimes in the country. Deposits cannot exceed two months' rent, must earn published interest paid each year, and require detailed written receipts and strict separate-account handling.
View full Chicago rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Statutes | RTLO + 765 ILCS 710 and 715 | - |
| Return window | 30 to 45 days | - |
| Interest threshold | 25+ units, 6 months held | - |
| Penalty | Double withheld plus fees | Two times deposit plus fees |
| Account rule | Illinois federally insured institution | - |
| Code | - | MCC 5-12-080 |
| Maximum deposit | - | No statutory cap, two months typical |
| Interest | - | Annual at city-published rate |
| Return deadline | - | 30 days after move-out |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington Heights FAQ
Must my landlord pay interest on my deposit?
Only if the building has 25 or more units and the deposit is held more than six months. The interest rate is set annually by the Illinois Comptroller and must be paid yearly or credited to rent.
What if I do not get itemized receipts?
Without paid receipts or estimates within the statutory window, the landlord forfeits the right to deduct. You can sue for return of the entire deposit plus statutory damages.
Chicago FAQ
Does my landlord owe interest every year?
Yes. MCC 5-12-080(c) requires interest payment within 30 days after each 12-month rental period, either by check or as a credit toward rent.
What if my landlord misses the 30-day return?
You may sue for two times the deposit plus interest, plus attorney fees and costs under MCC 5-12-080(f). Small Claims handles most cases.
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