Champaign — Ch. 17 Human Rights § 17-60
Explanation of denial required
Operative Text
It shall be an unlawful practice for any person to refuse, upon the written request of an unsuccessful applicant for credit, to provide within a reasonable period of time such an applicant with a written statement explaining the reason(s) for the denial, refusal or restriction of the amount or use of credit.
Under Champaign Ch. 17 Human Rights § 17-60, when someone applies for credit and is denied, refused, or given restricted credit terms, the party who made that decision is required to provide a written explanation of the reasons upon the applicant's written request. Failing to supply that explanation within a reasonable time is considered an unlawful practice under this provision. The rule applies to any person involved in extending credit, not just institutional lenders.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners or managers who evaluate rental applicants on the basis of credit should be aware that Ch. 17 Human Rights § 17-60 creates an obligation to respond in writing when a denied applicant submits a written request for an explanation. Compliant operators generally maintain records of the specific reasons behind any credit denial, refusal, or restriction so that a written response can be prepared and delivered within a reasonable timeframe. Keeping clear documentation of credit-evaluation criteria helps demonstrate that any response provided is accurate and complete.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Under Champaign Ch. 17 Human Rights § 17-60, if you have been denied, refused, or given restricted credit terms, you have the right to submit a written request asking for a written explanation of the reasons behind that decision. If the party who denied your application fails to respond within a reasonable period, that inaction may constitute an unlawful practice under Champaign's human rights ordinance. Tenants who believe this right has been violated can explore options such as filing a complaint with the Champaign Human Relations Commission or consulting a local tenant-rights organization for guidance on available remedies.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated November 10, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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