Illinois filing deadlines
General time limits to file a lawsuit in Illinois. Exceptions can apply, for example for minors, claims against government bodies, or when the injury was hidden.
General information only, not legal, insurance or financial advice. Not affiliated with any government agency. If a deadline may be close, speak with a lawyer licensed in Illinois now.
Personal injury
2 years Cross-checked
- Law: 735 ILCS 5/13-202
- Discovery rule (clock can start when the harm is discovered): Limited
Medical malpractice
2 years (4-year repose) Cross-checked
- Law: 735 ILCS 5/13-212
- Discovery rule (clock can start when the harm is discovered): Yes
- Outer time limit (statute of repose): 4 years
Wrongful death
2 years Cross-checked
- Law: 740 ILCS 180/2
- Discovery rule (clock can start when the harm is discovered): Limited
Property damage
5 years Cross-checked
- Law: 735 ILCS 5/13-205
- Discovery rule (clock can start when the harm is discovered): Limited
Product liability
2 years (10/12-year repose) Cross-checked
- Law: 735 ILCS 5/13-213
- Discovery rule (clock can start when the harm is discovered): Limited
- Outer time limit (statute of repose): 10 years
How we check these deadlines
Each period was compared across three independent 50-state surveys of state law. Where they disagreed, we checked the state's official code and corrected the figure. Every entry links to the official statute so you can read it yourself. Last checked: November 12, 2026.
Cross-checked sources agree Checked on official code confirmed directly on the state's code site Under review the rule depends on the type of claim or is being re-checked; read the linked statute.