[quote]can i ask for alimony in illinois when filing for a divorce, instead of property [/quote]

YOu can ask for anything you want.

But you may want to reconsider your position. Alimony can be modified. The property distribution usually isn't.

How long was the marriage for and is there a huge disparity in income?

Also, alimony ends upon remarriage, and in some cases, cohabitation.

Not to mention that you are dependent upon the person paying the alimony to actually pay it.

When you get property, you don't have to declare it as income. Nor do you pay taxes on it like you do alimony. And you can sell it and keep the money for yourself. And it can't be taken away if you get remarried or cohabitate. Or the ex loses the job and stops paying.