What You Need to Know About the 2024 Paid Time Off Law in Illinois

Are you ready for some important information about the new paid time off (PTO) law in Illinois? Well, you've come to the right place! Effective January 1st, 2024, there were some changes that every employee and employer in Illinois should know about. So, let's dive in!

How is PTO Accrued?

First things first, let's talk about how PTO accrual works. According to the new law, employees in Illinois will earn one hour of PTO for every 40 hours worked. After 90 days of employment, employees can start using their accrued PTO, up to a maximum of 40 hours per year. And guess what? This applies to all employees, whether they are part-time or full-time. Everyone deserves a break, right? 

Know the PTO Exceptions

Now, you might be wondering if there are any exceptions to this new law. Well, there are a few. Some specific job positions might not be covered, so it's essential to check the list of exceptions to find out if your situation applies. But generally, this law will apply to almost every company in Illinois. 

What are the Major Changes in the new PTO Law?

Let's talk about the process of taking PTO. One meaningful change with the new law is that employers cannot force employees to find a replacement for their PTO days. So, if an employee needs to take a day off, they don't have to worry about finding someone to cover their shift. It's all about giving employees the freedom to take the time they need. 

Here's another essential change: employees don't have to provide any documentation to take their paid time off. It's a refreshing step towards trust and flexibility. And guess what? Employees can even request their PTO on the same day they need it. This change is all about making things easier for employees and protecting their rights. 

But wait, there's more! Employers must pay their employees their regular wage during their PTO, unless they are tipped employees, in which case they must be paid at least the minimum wage. So, you don't have to worry about taking a financial hit when you decide to take some well-deserved time off. 

When can Employees Take PTO?

Now, you might be wondering who benefits the most from this new law. While it's advantageous for everyone, new employees will benefit by only having to wait for 90 days from the start of their employment to utilize their PTO. Existing employees, on the other hand, can start taking advantage of their PTO on March 31st, 2024 or 90 days from their date of hire. 

Check Your PTO Policy

If your company already has a PTO policy in place, make sure to review it. You might already meet the requirements outlined in the new law, or you might even go above and beyond them. It's always good to double-check and ensure that you are providing your employees with the time off they deserve. 

That's pretty much everything you need to know about the new PTO law in Illinois. It's a straightforward and fair law that aims to protect employees and give them the flexibility they need. So, if you're an Illinois employee or employer, familiarize yourself with these changes and be prepared to embrace them. 

Want to know how Kaizen can help you with the upcoming changes? Use the ‘Let’s Chat’ button to see if we're a good fit for your business.