With 2021 right around the corner, the Illinois Department of Labor is asking employees to watch their paychecks to make sure they are getting paid at the new rate.   IL Dept. of Labor Assistant Director Jason Keller says that this new rate is providing a path to $15 an hour.

The last time Illinois increased its minimum wage was in 2010 when it was raised to $8.25/hr. The rates will go up 1 dollar per year until 2025 when it reaches $15/hr. A recent study by the Illinois Economic Policy Institute at the University of Illinois shows that more than 1.4 million adult workers in Illinois make less than $15/hr. 

The new law also maintains provisions for employers to count tips to offset wages for workers such as food servers who regularly earn tips. Those who receive tips may be paid 60 percent of the hourly minimum wage. If the employee doesn’t make that, the employer must make up the difference.

If you have an issue regarding minimum wage or receiving it you can file a complaint with the Illinois Department of Labor at 312-793-2800.