Illinois Final Paycheck Laws
Calculate when final wages are due under Illinois law. Enter the termination details below.
Final Paycheck Deadline Calculator
Find out exactly when the final paycheck is due based on state law.
Illinois Law
Next regular payday
Under the Illinois Wage Payment and Collection Act, final wages (including accrued vacation) must be paid by the next scheduled payday. Employees may request payment by mail. Penalties for late payment can include damages equal to 2% of unpaid wages per month, up to double the amount owed, plus attorney fees.
This is a significant distinction from many other states. Under Illinois law, vacation time is considered earned wages and must be paid out upon termination, regardless of the reason for separation. Employers cannot have 'use it or lose it' policies. Vacation accrual can be capped, but earned vacation cannot be forfeited.
⚠️Penalty Estimator
2% of unpaid wages per month
No penalty yet - deadline has not passed.
Never miss a payroll deadline again
- Real-time alerts when state laws change
- Compliance checklists & calendar exports
- Multi-state coverage for growing teams
Illinois Final Paycheck Requirements
| Scenario | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Employee is fired or laid off | Next regular payday |
| Employee quits with notice | Next regular payday |
| Employee quits without notice | Next regular payday |
| PTO/Vacation payout required? | Yes |
⚠️ Late Payment Penalties
2% of unpaid wages per month
PTO/Vacation Payout
This is a significant distinction from many other states. Under Illinois law, vacation time is considered earned wages and must be paid out upon termination, regardless of the reason for separation. Employers cannot have 'use it or lose it' policies. Vacation accrual can be capped, but earned vacation cannot be forfeited.
Additional Notes
Under the Illinois Wage Payment and Collection Act, final wages (including accrued vacation) must be paid by the next scheduled payday. Employees may request payment by mail. Penalties for late payment can include damages equal to 2% of unpaid wages per month, up to double the amount owed, plus attorney fees.
Compare Other States
Need more than just final paycheck rules?
View the complete Illinois Payroll Compliance Guide →