Springfield, IL  (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Illinois’ Freelance Worker Protection Act went into effect on July 1 and provides protections for independent contractors in Illinois. Key provisions include:

  • Written Contracts: Required for work valued at $500 or more within 120 days, detailing the services/products, deadlines, and payment terms.
  • Timely Payment: Full payment by the contract due date or within 30 days of completing services if no date is specified.
  • Protection from Retaliation: Safeguards against negative actions for exercising rights under the Act.

The law does not cover freelance construction services or employees of an employer. It does create clear expectations, ensuring freelancers receive timely pay and proper contract terms.

“Freelance workers, like all workers, deserve to have basic protections like timely pay and the right to a written contract,” said State Rep. Will Guzzardi (D-Chicago). “Many freelancers say they live check to check; these protections ensure there are clear expectations for the workers and hiring entities.”

More information is available on the Illinois Department of Labor’s website.