Your rights, your numbers, your resources — in one place. Free tools for Chicago renters, built on verified law and lease-backed accountability.
A common guideline is keeping rent at or under 30% of your gross monthly income. Enter your numbers — nothing is stored or sent anywhere.
Plain-language summaries of Chicago and Illinois renter protections. Educational information, not legal advice — links go to official, verified sources.
Under Chicago’s RLTO, landlords must hold your deposit separately, pay interest where required, and return it with an itemized statement within set deadlines. Failure can entitle you to damages.
Read the RLTO →Your unit must be kept fit to live in — heat, plumbing, working locks, no major code violations. The RLTO gives tenants remedies when essential services fail. Document everything in writing.
City of Chicago — RLTO →Illinois requires proper written notice before an eviction can be filed, and only a court — never a landlord — can order you out. Lockouts and utility shutoffs to force you out are illegal in Chicago.
Illinois Legal Aid Online →A landlord generally can’t retaliate against you for requesting repairs, reporting code violations, or exercising your legal rights. Keep records and seek legal help promptly if you believe you’re facing retaliation.
Get help →Renter plans start at $9.99/mo. Pick a plan on the website, then sign in to your workspace.
Tools, public records, and the full story live on the main WURTHIT™ website.
Visit the full website →
WURTHIT™