Living Will in Illinois — Free PDF & Word (2026 Updated)
Healthcare decisions and end-of-life wishes
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LIVING WILL
State of Illinois
I, [YOUR NAME], being of sound mind, willfully and voluntarily make this Living Will to express my wishes regarding medical treatment.
DECLARANT:
Name: [YOUR NAME]
Address: [ADDRESS]
City, State, ZIP: [CITY], IL [ZIP]
Date of Birth: [DOB]
DECLARATION:
If I am unable to make my own medical decisions and am in a terminal condition or permanent unconscious state, I direct that:
1. LIFE-SUSTAINING TREATMENT
[ ] I DO want life-sustaining treatment
[ ] I DO NOT want life-sustaining treatment
2. ARTIFICIAL NUTRITION AND HYDRATION
[ ] I DO want artificial nutrition and hydration
[ ] I DO NOT want artificial nutrition and hydration
3. PAIN MANAGEMENT
I want all measures taken to keep me comfortable and free from pain.
4. ORGAN DONATION
[ ] I wish to donate my organs
[ ] I do not wish to donate my organs
This Living Will complies with Illinois advance directive laws (IL Statutes).
DECLARANT SIGNATURE: _____________________ DATE: _____
WITNESS 1: _____________________ DATE: _____
WITNESS 2: _____________________ DATE: _____
NOTARY PUBLIC:
State of Illinois, County of [COUNTY]
Subscribed and sworn before me this ___ day of _______, 20__.
Notary Signature: _____________________
Illinois Living Will Requirements
Review the following requirements to ensure your Living Will is legally valid in Illinois.
Illinois Notarization
While notarization may not be required in Illinois, it is recommended. Fees range from $1-$5.
Before You Sign
Review all information carefully. In Illinois, a 6.25% sales tax may apply.
Legal Protection
Keep copies of all signed documents. Illinois law requires all parties to receive copies of executed documents.
Illinois Filing Deadlines
Check Illinois deadlines for filing or recording this document with the appropriate county clerk's office.
Sarah Mitchell, J.D.
Legal Document Specialist
Licensed Attorney, 15+ years experience
Specializes in contract law and legal document preparation
This Living Will template for Illinois has been reviewed for accuracy and legal compliance.
Last reviewed: March 2026
Living Will Costs in Illinois
Estimated fees and processing times
| Fee Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Notary Fee | $5-$15 (if required) | Illinois standard rate: $1-$5 |
| Filing Fee | Varies by state | State registration (if applicable) |
| Processing Time | 1-3 business days | Typical turnaround in Illinois |
| Sales Tax | 6.25% | Illinois base rate (local taxes may apply) |
| Witness Requirement | 1 witness | Single witness sufficient |
| Our Template | FREE | Download instantly, no cost |
Illinois Living Will Legal Guide
Under Illinois jurisdiction, this form meets all statutory requirements and provides comprehensive legal protection for your transaction.
For Illinois (IL) residents, this Living Will is governed by Illinois State Code. Important details: sales tax at 6.25%, notary costs of $1-$5, and a requirement for 1 witness. The document has indefinite validity once properly executed.
This document offers comprehensive legal protection tailored specifically to Illinois's unique statutory framework.
Getting It Done Right in Illinois
Here's the practical approach: download, fill in your details, get signatures, and handle any IL-required notarization. Illinois makes the process relatively straightforward, but attention to detail matters. Keep at least two copies — one for each party involved.
Legal Validity & Enforcement
Once properly executed, your Living Will is legally binding in Illinois and enforceable in IL courts. The document remains valid for the duration specified in its terms. Illinois courts generally uphold properly executed documents, provided they comply with applicable IL statutes.
Smart Practices for IL Compliance
Illinois has specific rules that differ from neighboring states. Always verify your document against current IL statutes, especially if you're using a template from a previous year. Laws change, and what was valid last year in Illinois may need updating for 2026.
IL Compliance Checklist
Before finalizing your Living Will, verify that it meets Illinois's legal standards:
- Full legal names and addresses of all parties
- Clear description of the subject matter
- Consideration or purpose stated explicitly
- Dated and signed by all required parties
- Notarized if mandated by IL statute
Once properly executed, your Living Will is legally binding in Illinois and enforceable in IL courts. The document remains valid for the duration specified in its terms. Illinois courts generally uphold properly executed documents, provided they comply with applicable IL statutes.
Smart Practices for IL Compliance
Illinois has specific rules that differ from neighboring states. Always verify your document against current IL statutes, especially if you're using a template from a previous year. Laws change, and what was valid last year in Illinois may need updating for 2026.
IL Compliance Checklist
Before finalizing your Living Will, verify that it meets Illinois's legal standards:
- Full legal names and addresses of all parties
- Clear description of the subject matter
- Consideration or purpose stated explicitly
- Dated and signed by all required parties
- Notarized if mandated by IL statute
Before finalizing your Living Will, verify that it meets Illinois's legal standards:
- Full legal names and addresses of all parties
- Clear description of the subject matter
- Consideration or purpose stated explicitly
- Dated and signed by all required parties
- Notarized if mandated by IL statute
FAQ: Living Will in Illinois
Is a Living Will required in Illinois?
Yes, in Illinois, a Living Will is required for most transactions of this type. Under Illinois State Code, the document must include all parties' information, be signed, and witnessed by at least one individual. Failure to use a proper Living Will may result in legal complications.
Does a Living Will need to be notarized in Illinois?
Notarization requirements in Illinois (IL) vary by transaction type. Notary fees in the state typically range from $1-$5. While not always mandatory, notarization adds an extra layer of legal protection and is recommended for high-value transactions.
What are the tax implications of a Living Will in Illinois?
Illinois has a base sales tax rate of 6.25%. Depending on the type of transaction documented in your Living Will, additional local taxes may apply. Consult with a Illinois tax professional for specific guidance on your situation.
What is the difference between a living will and a regular will?
A living will addresses medical decisions if you become incapacitated, while a regular will distributes your assets after death. A living will specifies your wishes for life-sustaining treatment, while a will names beneficiaries and an executor.
Do I need witnesses for a living will?
Most states require two witnesses for a living will, and some also require notarization. Witnesses typically cannot be family members, heirs, or your healthcare providers. Check your state's specific requirements for valid execution.
Can I change my living will?
Yes, you can change or revoke your living will at any time while you are mentally competent. You should destroy old copies, create a new document, and provide updated copies to your healthcare providers and designated healthcare agent.
Where to File Your Living Will in Illinois
Visit your local County Clerk office to file or notarize your Living Will.
Cook County Clerk
Chicago
118 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60602
Sangamon County Clerk
Springfield
200 S 9th St, Springfield, IL 62701
Peoria County Clerk
Peoria
324 Main St, Peoria, IL 61602
Other Forms in Illinois
Living Will in Neighboring States
Document Information
- Document
- Living Will
- State
- Illinois (IL)
- Category
- Estate Planning
- Format
- PDF / Word / Print
- Cost
- 100% Free
- Sales Tax
- 6.25%
- Notary Fee
- $1-$5
Illinois Legal Requirements
Governing Statute:
State Advance Directive Law
- ✓Must be in writing and signed
- ✓Witnesses required (typically 2)
- ✓Notarization may be required
- ✓Must be competent when executing
📊 Living Will vs. Last Will and Testament in Illinois
Legal Disclaimer
This template is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws in Illinois may change. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.