Illinois 30 Day Notice To Vacate

Last Updated: March 30, 2024 by Roberto Valenzuela

An Illinois 30 Day Notice To Vacate is a letter that complies with state legal requirements to terminate a monthly lease or a tenancy of less than one year (or of up to six months, in Chicago only). The non-terminating party must receive notice at least thirty (30) calendar days before the date of termination.

When To Use an Illinois 30 Day Notice To Vacate

An Illinois 30 Day Notice To Vacate terminates the following types of tenancy:

  • A tenancy of less than one (1) year, other than a week-to-week tenancy

    • In Chicago only, this is, instead, a tenancy of up to six (6) months, other than a week-to-week tenancy
  • An expired lease
  • A rental with no written lease
  • A tenant holding over on a lease without special agreement

Some types of Illinois lease termination notice may allow different reasons for termination, or different notice periods. This may also apply to an eviction notice issued because of a lease or legal violation.

How To Write an Illinois 30 Day Notice To Vacate

To help ensure the legal compliance of a Notice To Vacate:

  1. Use the full name of the receiving parties, and address of record, if known
  2. Specify the termination date of the lease or tenancy
  3. Fill in the full address of the rental premises
  4. Provide updated/current address and phone number information
  5. Print name and sign the notice
  6. Complete the certificate of service by indicating the date and method of notice delivery, along with printed name and signature

It is easy to lose an otherwise justified legal action because of improper notice. Check carefully to ensure enough time after notice is delivered, not when it’s sent.

How To Serve an Illinois 30 Day Notice To Vacate

Illinois landlords and tenants may deliver a Notice To Vacate using any of these methods:

  1. Hand delivery to the other party
  2. Hand delivery to a person at least age 13 on the property who can accept the notice on behalf of the other party
  3. Delivery by registered or certified mail with return receipt requested
  4. Only when the premises are abandoned: Posting at a conspicuous place on the premises, such as the entry door

note
In almost all cases, notice is legally served when it is received by the other party, NOT when it’s sent. Check specified date of termination carefully to ensure compliance with the legal requirements for a notice period.

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