What is the statute of limitations for fraud in Illinois?

5 years from the date the cause of action accrues. Authority: 735 ILCS 5/13-205.

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Illinois

Statute of limitations for fraud in Illinois

Illinois fraud claims commonly fall under the five-year limitations period for civil actions not otherwise provided for. Fraud cases can still turn on discovery, concealment, and when the plaintiff reasonably could have learned of the misrepresentation.

SoL period

5 years

From the date the cause of action accrues

Compute your deadline

Filing deadline

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Where this rule comes from

Statute

735 ILCS 5/13-205

"Civil actions not otherwise provided for shall be commenced within 5 years after accrual."

Read the full statute Last verified May 7, 2026 by Juryvine Editorial

What can extend or pause this clock

Discovery rule. Fraud accrual can be discovery-sensitive; verify concealment and discovery facts before relying on the general five-year period.

Frequently asked

What is the statute of limitations for fraud in Illinois?: 5 years from the date the cause of action accrues. Authority: 735 ILCS 5/13-205.
What if the injury wasn't immediately apparent?: Fraud accrual can be discovery-sensitive; verify concealment and discovery facts before relying on the general five-year period.

Fraud statute by state

California 3 years Florida 4 years New York 6 years Pennsylvania 2 years Texas 4 years

Other Illinois statutes of limitations

Personal Injury 2 years Medical Malpractice 2 years Wrongful Death 2 years Breach of Written Contract 10 years Breach of Oral Contract 5 years Civil Rights — 42 U.S.C. § 1983 2 years Premises Liability 2 years Product Liability 2 years

Not legal advice. Statutes of limitations are governed by complex doctrine with many exceptions. Use this page as a starting point and verify with an attorney before relying on any deadline. Juryvine is not a law firm and does not represent clients.