Section 400.20  Deposit of Wills

a)         Prior to depositing any will with the Department, the depositor shall cause to be conducted a diligent search for the testator, whether it is known or unknown if the testator is living.  A will may be deposited with the Department only if the depositor is unable to locate the testator after a diligent search. [15 ILCS 305/5.15]

b)         The depositor shall complete a certification of search, as set forth in Section 400.30.

c)         The Department may reject any will deposit if a diligent search has not been conducted.

d)         Wills may only be deposited in person at the Department at 111 East Monroe St., Springfield , Illinois 62756.  Deposits of five or more wills will be accepted only by appointment. 

e)         Upon completion of the receipt, as set forth in Section 400.40, the Department will affix one copy of the receipt to the envelope containing the will and will seal the envelope securely in the depositor's presence [15 ILCS 305/5.15].