If you have tried to serve the tenant, typically through the sheriff's office or a special process server, but the tenant cannot be found or is avoiding service, other options are available.

You can file a motion to ask the judge to let you do service by:

• Posting on the door, or
• Publication in a newspaper.
• Either way, you have to also send the documents by certified or registered mail, with returned receipt from the addressee.

You first have to file a motion with the court asking them to let you do this. You must attach an affidavit that says the tenant:

• Is not a resident of Illinois,
• Has left Illinois,
• Cannot be found after due inquiry, or
• Is hiding from service.

The affidavit must also state:

• ​​The last known residence of the tenant, or
• That you were not able to find the tenant after trying your best.

You can find eviction forms on the Illinois Courts website.

Note: You will likely not be able to get a money judgment from a tenant you serve by posting or publication. This means you cannot get the judge to order the tenant to pay you money for unpaid rent or damages to your property.