Illinois small claims — filing a claim

About this state

Illinois small claims are filed in the Circuit Court of the county connected to your dispute. Cook County has its own district structure, so confirm which courthouse handles your case.

• Illinois generally requires electronic filing for civil cases, with an exemption process for self-represented filers.
• In Cook County, the correct district courthouse depends on where the defendant lives or the events occurred.
• Corporations usually must appear through a licensed attorney above a certain claim amount — ask the clerk.
• Ask the clerk about the Application for Waiver of Court Fees, which has full and partial waiver options.