Sealing an Eviction Record in Illinois: A Renter’s Guide

If you’ve faced an eviction in Illinois, the public record can make it harder to rent in the future. Thankfully, under recent Illinois law, many renters may qualify to have their eviction records sealed. This guide explains eligibility, how sealing works, and the steps and forms you’ll need to protect your renter history in Illinois.

Understanding Eviction Records and Sealing

When an eviction case is filed against you, it creates a court record—even if you win or settle. Landlords and tenant screening companies can access these records when reviewing rental applications. Sealing a record means limiting public access to it, so it won’t appear in most background checks.

When Can an Eviction Record Be Sealed?

Illinois law (735 ILCS 5/9-121)—part of the Illinois Code of Civil Procedure—lets tenants ask the court to seal eviction records in specific situations, including:

• The case was thrown out, you won, or it was settled in your favor
• The eviction was due to nonpayment during a covered COVID-19 period
• The eviction happened more than 7 years ago
• Extraordinary circumstances (such as being a survivor of domestic violence or errors in the eviction case)

Sealing is not automatic—you must ask the court. Recent changes expand eligibility, especially for older or COVID-19-related cases.

How to Ask the Court to Seal Your Eviction Record

You can apply to have your eviction record sealed by filing a court form with the circuit court that handled your eviction. Below are step-by-step instructions and links to the necessary official forms.

Required Form: Motion to Seal Court File

• Form Name: Motion to Seal Court File or a Portion of the Court File
• Illinois Supreme Court Form Number: None (varies by county, but there is a statewide template)
• Where to Get It: Download the approved form from the Illinois Courts Approved Forms – Eviction Section
• When Used: You file this form with the court that heard your eviction case to request that your case file be sealed from public view. For example, if your eviction was dismissed or more than 7 years have passed, you could file this motion with the appropriate circuit court.

What Happens After You File?

The judge may ask you to attend a court hearing. Bring any evidence showing why your record should be sealed. If the motion is approved, the court will make the file unavailable to the public.

Who Handles Eviction Cases in Illinois?

Eviction cases in Illinois are overseen by the local Circuit Court. The Illinois Circuit Courts are responsible for most landlord-tenant matters, including sealing eviction records.

Relevant Legislation

• Illinois Code of Civil Procedure – Article IX, especially section 9-121

Step-by-Step: How to Seal an Eviction Record in Illinois

• Get a copy of your eviction court record from the circuit court where your case was heard.
• Download and complete the Motion to Seal Court File form.
• File the form (with any supporting documents) at the court clerk’s office in the same courthouse where your eviction was filed.
• Attend the court hearing, if scheduled. Be prepared to explain why your record should be sealed. Bring documents like dismissal orders, payment receipts, or evidence of hardship.
• If approved, the judge will issue an order sealing your record. Ask for a certified copy for your records.

This process takes effort, but sealing your record can offer a fresh start when searching for housing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sealing Eviction Records in Illinois

1. Who can seal their eviction record in Illinois?
   Tenants who won or settled their case, had their case dismissed, faced eviction for nonpayment during COVID-19 periods, or whose case is older than 7 years may be eligible.
2. Does sealing an eviction record remove it completely?
   No. Sealing restricts access to the public and most landlords, but courts and law enforcement may still view the record if needed.
3. Can I seal more than one eviction record?
   Yes, you may request sealing for multiple eligible records, but you’ll generally need to file separate motions for each case.
4. Is there a court fee for filing a motion to seal in Illinois?
   Filing fees may apply, but fee waivers are available for those who qualify. Ask the circuit clerk for a fee waiver application if you have low income.
5. How long does it take to get an eviction record sealed?
   Processing times vary by court, but it may take several weeks. Respond promptly to any court requests for information or a hearing.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Illinois Circuit Courts – Find Your Local Court
• Illinois Legal Aid Online: Free guides and help for renters
• Illinois Department of Human Services: Housing assistance options
• Illinois Approved Eviction Forms

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1. Illinois Code of Civil Procedure – Article IX
2. Illinois Supreme Court – Approved Eviction Forms
3. Illinois Circuit Courts – Official Directory

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