Prairie State Wire

The minimum wage in Illinois is set to increase on January 1, 2025. The new rate will be $15 per hour, up from the current $14. Tipped workers will see their wages rise to $9 per hour, while youth workers under 18 working fewer than 650 hours a year will earn $13 per hour.

Governor JB Pritzker stated, "Since day one of my administration, I've made it my mission to build an economy that works for everyone and raising the minimum wage to $15 an hour fulfills that promise to our working families." He added that this increase supports workers and aims for a more equitable economy.

Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton commented, "For too long, Illinois' working families have contributed to our shared home without fair compensation." She expressed gratitude for being part of an administration committed to its promises.

This marks the seventh and final step in a series of increases outlined in legislation signed by Governor Pritzker in 2019. The plan aimed for a gradual rise leading to the $15 hourly rate by 2025.

Jane Flanagan, Director of the Illinois Department of Labor, noted that these increases help workers manage everyday expenses as living costs rise. "As we welcome the new year, we can also celebrate that hourly workers will be getting a bump in pay," she said.

Workers are advised to check their paystubs in January to ensure proper payment. In Chicago, minimum wage rates may differ based on employer size. Complaints regarding minimum wage can be filed with IDOL or through their hotline at (800) 478-3998.