Illinois Labor Laws: A Complete Guide to Wages, Breaks, Overtime, and More for 2025

Let’s take a deep dive into Illinois labor laws, with details on all the important aspects of the state’s regulations on your employees.

illinois labor laws
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum wage in Illinois?

Under Illinois labor laws, the minimum wage is $15 per hour for non-tipped workers. Tipped employees must be paid at least $9.00 per hour, but their total compensation, including tips, must equal or exceed the regular minimum wage.

Youth workers under 18 can be paid a reduced minimum wage of $13.00 per hour if they work fewer than 650 hours per year. Local jurisdictions, such as Chicago and Cook County, may have higher minimum wage rates. Employers who fail to meet these wage standards can face significant fines and back pay requirements.

What are the overtime pay requirements in Illinois?

In Illinois, non-exempt employees are entitled to overtime pay at a rate of 1.5 times their regular hourly wage for any hours worked over 40 in a workweek. This overtime rule applies to most workers, but certain categories, such as salaried managers and independent contractors, may be exempt. Overtime violations can result in penalties, including back pay and fines. Illinois follows the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) guidelines, so any overtime pay disputes are subject to both state and federal scrutiny.

How does Illinois protect workers against discrimination?

Illinois labor laws, through the Illinois Human Rights Act, prohibit employers from discriminating against workers based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, age, and several other protected categories. Recent amendments expanded protections to include reproductive health decisions and gender identity. The Illinois Department of Human Rights (IDHR) handles complaints of workplace discrimination, and employers found guilty can face fines and legal action. Illinois law also provides whistleblower protections for employees who report discrimination or other illegal practices.

What are the child labor regulations in Illinois?

Illinois child labor laws regulate the types of work minors can perform and the hours they can work. For example, minors under 16 are generally prohibited from working more than three hours on a school day or more than eight hours on a non-school day. The new 2025 child labor law further specifies restrictions on industries where minors can work and requires employers to obtain a valid employment certificate for minor workers. Violations can lead to both civil and criminal penalties.

How do Illinois labor laws handle breaks and meal periods?

Illinois labor laws require employers to provide a 20-minute meal break for employees who work at least 7.5 consecutive hours. This break must occur no later than five hours into the shift. However, Illinois law does not mandate shorter breaks or rest periods. Employees who work through their meal breaks must be compensated. Break regulations in Illinois may vary depending on industry and local ordinances, so employers need to stay informed.

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