What are Small Claims?

If your vehicle or property was damaged due to actions or negligence by the City of Chicago and/or its employees, you may be entitled to submit a claim against the City of Chicago. Claims of under $2,500 are processed by the Committee on Finance's Small Claims Division. Larger claims over $2,500 are processed by the Chicago Department of Law's Claims Unit.

How to Submit a Claim

Intake for all claims against the City of Chicago is handled by the Chicago Clerk's office. Claim forms may be found at www.chicityclerk.com/claims. The Clerk's website also details what documents need to be submitted as part of your claim so it can be processed correctly. IF YOUR CLAIM IS MISSING INFORMATION, PROCESSING WILL BE DELAYED OR YOUR CLAIM WILL BE DENIED. Please be sure to submit all required documents and updated contact information to ensure your claim is processed.

Small Claims Payment Information

Following the legal concept of comparative fault, Small Claims authorizes payments of 50 percent of the value of the damaged parts (not replacement cost) on damage claims related to potholes when payment is appropriate. Additionally, depreciation is taken on hardware five years and older. There are some exceptions, such as for payment of an insurance deductible or the cost of a tow due to vehicle damage.

Claims related to road resurfacing are generally covered by a third party. Department of Water Management excavations are usually considered construction probability and paid accordingly. Sewer cave-ins, and moving collisions with a City vehicle claims (if payment is appropriate) are paid at 75 percent of the associated costs.

All payments will be reduced by the amount owed if the claimant owes a debt to the City.

Claims of City-caused damage to private property or parked vehicles are paid at 100 percent if approved by the responsible department.

Checking the Status of Your Claim

You may contact the Committee on Finance at 312.744.8861 to follow up on the status of your claim.