The figures on this page are general estimates. Laws, fees, thresholds, and prices differ by state and change often, and your own situation may change the result. Before you act, confirm the current numbers and rules for Illinois with a licensed professional — an attorney, tax advisor, or licensed agent as appropriate. Reading this page does not create a professional relationship.
When the clock starts in Illinois
The single fact that governs every other date on this page: in Illinois the creditor-claim period runs from the date stated in the notice to creditors under 755 ILCS 5/18-3.
This is not the same in every state. Some states run the period from the date of death, others from the date letters are issued to the personal representative, others from first publication of the notice to creditors. A deadline calculated from the wrong event is simply wrong, and a missed claim deadline is not curable.
Illinois deadlines at a glance
| Deadline | Illinois | Statute |
|---|---|---|
| Inventory | Sixty days after the issuance of letters. A supplemental inventory is due within 60 days after further property comes to the representative's knowledge. | 755 ILCS 5/14-1(a) |
| Creditor claim period | A claim is barred if the claimant does not file on or before the date stated in the notice given under 755 ILCS 5/18-3, or on or before the date stated in the published notice where the claimant is not known or reasonably ascertainable. | 755 ILCS 5/18-12(a) |
| Outer claim bar | Two years after the decedent's death, whether or not letters of office are issued. | 755 ILCS 5/18-12(b) |
The inventory deadline, as written
Within 60 days after the issuance of his letters the representative of the estate of a decedent or ward shall file in the court a verified inventory of the real and personal estate which has come to his knowledge and of any cause of action on which he has a right to sue.
— 755 ILCS 5/14-1(a)
The creditor-claim period, as written
Every claim against the estate of a decedent, except expenses of administration and surviving spouse's or child's award, is barred as to all of the decedent's estate if: (1) Notice is given to the claimant as provided in Section 18-3 and the claimant does not file a claim with the representative or the court on or before the date stated in the notice…
— 755 ILCS 5/18-12(a)
What this page does not state
Where a figure is not recorded above, it is because it was not found in the statute cited — not because no deadline exists. Court rules, local rules, and standing orders set additional dates that are not part of the statutory text, and those are not reproduced here. Confirm every date against the Illinois court handling the estate.
Sources
- Statutes: 755 ILCS 5/14-1(a); 755 ILCS 5/18-12(a); 755 ILCS 5/18-12(b)
- Authority: Illinois General Assembly (ilga.gov)
- Source URL: https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=075500050K18-12
- Verified: 2026-08-15
Related Illinois guides
- How Long Does Probate Take in Illinois? — the overall timeline these deadlines sit inside.
- How much does probate cost in Illinois? — the cost side.
- How Much Does an Executor Get Paid in Illinois? — compensation for the work.
- Illinois Probate Fee Sheet — printable one-page reference.
- Executor Duties: The Complete Checklist — what the role involves.
Executor deadlines in other states
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This page reproduces Illinois statutory deadlines as published at the time of verification. It is not legal advice. Statutes are amended, court rules impose additional dates, and application depends on the specific estate. Confirm every date with the Illinois court or a licensed Illinois attorney.