As of July 1st, the 2025 Chicago paid leave rules underwent significant changes to payout and private cause of action. Under the updated ordinance, any employee who works more than 80 hours within a 120-day period for an employer with at least one employee in Chicago is now eligible for both general paid leave and paid sick and safe leave. This includes remote workers whose work is performed within Chicago’s geographic boundaries.

The Chicago Fair Workweek Ordinance continues to expand in 2025, providing more workers with predictable scheduling rights, compensation protections, and legal tools to assert control over their work schedules. As of July 1, 2025, updated income thresholds mean that even more Chicagoans in specific industries are covered under the law. Whether you’re new to the workforce or a long-time hourly employee, it’s essential to understand if this ordinance applies to you and what your employer must do to stay compliant.

As of July 1, 2025, the Chicago minimum wage has increased again, giving workers across the city a boost in earnings. Whether you work full-time, part-time, in a restaurant, or as a domestic worker, it is essential to understand how much you are legally entitled to earn and how to ensure your paycheck reflects that amount.