FirmTimerFirmTimerCalculate accurate filing deadlines for various causes of action in Illinois. This tool provides statute citations, legal notes, and important deadline information for your case.
Statute may be tolled until age of majority
Statute may be tolled due to disability
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June 16, 2027
Suits for personal injuries must be commenced within two years after the cause of action accrues. Illinois tolls the statute for persons under 18 or otherwise legally disabled – the period of disability is excluded, but an overall repose may limit very old claims (see 735 ILCS 5/13-211 and 5/13-212(c)).
Last reviewed 6/12/2025
Firm Timer helps you track every minute of your workday, ensuring you never miss a billable hour again. Our intuitive time tracking software is designed for law firms, making it easy to capture time on the go.
| Cause of Action | Statute of Limitations | Discovery Rule | Statute of Repose | Legal Citation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Personal Injury | 2 years | No | — | 735 ILCS 5/13-202 |
| Wrongful Death | 2 years | No | — | 740 ILCS 180/2 |
| Property Damage | 5 years | No | — | 735 ILCS 5/13-205 |
| Written Contract | 10 years | No | — | 735 ILCS 5/13-206 |
| Oral Contract | 5 years | No | — | 735 ILCS 5/13-205 |
| Defamation | 1 year | No | — | 735 ILCS 5/13-201 |
| Medical Malpractice | 2 years | Yes | 4 years | 735 ILCS 5/13-212(a) |
| Consumer Debt | 10 years | No | — | 735 ILCS 5/13-206 |
Common questions about Illinois statutes of limitations
The shortest deadline in Illinois is 1 years for defamation (libel/slander) claims, while the longest is 10 years for consumer debt disputes. Missing these cut-offs—even by a day—can permanently bar recovery.
Note: Illinois also enforces statutes of repose, which create an absolute bar after a set number of years, regardless of when the injury is discovered. Our calculator flags these where applicable.
A statute of limitations sets the maximum time after an event within which legal proceedings may be initiated. In Illinois, these time limits vary by the type of claim or offense.
Missing a filing deadline can permanently bar your claim, regardless of its merit. This calculator helps you determine the deadline for your specific case, but always consult with a qualified attorney for legal advice.
For more information about Illinois law, visit the official Illinois courts or legislature website.