Illinois offer letter for employers
An offer letter confirms the job, pay, start date and employment terms in writing. Here is what changes when the employee works in Illinois.
Illinois rules that affect this form
| Minimum wage | $15.00 per hour |
|---|---|
| Overtime | No daily overtime. Time and a half after 40 hours in a workweek (employers with 4+ employees). |
| Paid sick leave | Yes, under the Paid Leave for All Workers Act: 1 hour per 40 hours worked, at least 40 hours a year, usable for any reason. Employers covered by a local ordinance (such as Chicago or Cook County) follow that ordinance instead. |
| Other rules to know | Pay transparency: employers with 15+ employees must include the pay scale and benefits in job postings (since Jan 1, 2025). Paid Leave for All Workers Act leave does not have to be paid out at separation unless the employer puts it in a PTO or vacation bank. |
What to include
- Job title, manager, start date and work location (or remote status)
- Pay rate and pay frequency, and whether the role is exempt or non-exempt from overtime
- At-will employment statement (where at-will applies) so the letter is not read as a contract
- Contingencies such as a background check or Form I-9 verification
- Benefits summary and when eligibility starts, including any paid sick leave the state requires
- A clear accept-by date and signature line
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Frequently asked questions
Is there an official Illinois offer letter form?
Illinois does not publish one required offer letter for private employers. Use a clear template and make sure it reflects the Illinois rules on this page.
What is the minimum wage in Illinois in 2026?
$15.00 per hour, effective January 1, 2025. $15.00 has applied since Jan 1, 2025, and the statute schedules no further increase. Workers under 18 who have worked 650 hours or fewer in the year can be paid $13.00. Chicago and Cook County have higher local rates.
Is paid sick leave required in Illinois?
Yes, under the Paid Leave for All Workers Act: 1 hour per 40 hours worked, at least 40 hours a year, usable for any reason. Employers covered by a local ordinance (such as Chicago or Cook County) follow that ordinance instead.
Other Illinois forms
Offer Letter by state
This page is general information for employers, not legal advice. Employment laws change and can vary by city and county. Confirm details with the state labor department or an employment attorney. Read our disclaimer.