ILIllinois final paycheck law
If you are fired in Illinois, your final pay is due at the time of separation if possible, and no later than the next regular payday. If you quit, it is due at the time of separation if possible, and no later than the next regular payday.
| If you | Your last check is due |
|---|---|
| were fired or laid off | At the time of separation if possible, and no later than the next regular payday |
| quit | At the time of separation if possible, and no later than the next regular payday |
| have unused vacation | It must be paid. Earned but unused vacation must be paid when you leave the job unless a written agreement says otherwise. |
| are paid late | Wage Payment and Collection Act: 5% of the underpayment per month plus fees if you file a wage complaint. |
| want to read the law | 820 ILCS 115/5checked October 29, 2026 |
When is my last check due? Illinois calculator
What these words mean
- Final paycheck
- The last pay you are owed after a job ends: all hours worked and, in some states, your unused vacation.
- Late-pay penalty
- Extra money some states make an employer pay when your final check is late.
- Payout
- Being paid cash for paid time off you earned but never used.
- Wage complaint
- A free claim you file with your state labor office or the U.S. Department of Labor when you are not paid what the law requires.
Questions
I was fired in Illinois. When do I get my last check?
At the time of separation if possible, and no later than the next regular payday. It must include the vacation you earned but did not use.
I quit my job in Illinois. When do I get my last check?
At the time of separation if possible, and no later than the next regular payday.
What if my employer pays my last check late in Illinois?
Wage Payment and Collection Act: 5% of the underpayment per month plus fees if you file a wage complaint.
Will my unused vacation be in my last check in Illinois?
Yes, the law requires it. Earned but unused vacation must be paid when you leave the job unless a written agreement says otherwise. See Illinois PTO payout rules.
Can my employer keep my last check until I return my uniform or laptop?
No. Money you earned is yours. An employer can only take out what the law or a signed agreement allows. If the check is late, file a free wage complaint with the Illinois labor office.