In 2021, the Illinois Equal Pay Act was amended to promote pay equity and transparency. As a result, certain employers must obtain an Equal Pay Registration Certificate (EPRC) by submitting wage and demographic information to the Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL). With the 2025 submission cycle approaching, IDOL has introduced key updates to the process.
Who Needs to File?
Private employers must obtain an EPRC if they:
- Have 100 or more employees in Illinois, including remote employees who report to Illinois-based managers, and
- Are required to file an EEO-1 report with the federal government.
When and How to Renew
- EPRCs must be renewed every two years.
- Recertification deadlines vary based on your company’s original certification date.
- IDOL is required to provide at least 180 days’ notice before your renewal deadline, but even if you don’t receive a notice, you are still responsible for timely recertification.
- You must file through the IDOL Equal Pay Portal, whether you are certifying for the first time or recertifying.
What’s New for 2025?
IDOL has made two major changes for 2025:
- Updated Data Template: Employers must now include whether each employee is:
- Hourly or salaried, and
- Covered by a collective bargaining agreement.
- Fully Web-Based Submission: The entire process is now online—there is no need to download, scan, or re-upload the compliance statement or other forms.
Tips to Stay Compliant
- Prepare early: A large volume of renewals is expected for 2025.
- Keep contact information current: Complete IDOL’s contact survey and use a shared inbox to avoid missing notices.
- Know the risks: If you miss your deadline, a 30-day cure period applies—but penalties can reach $10,000, and your certificate may be suspended or revoked.
Whether you’re applying for the first time or renewing, make sure you understand your responsibilities and check your timeline based on your original certification date. Staying ahead of these changes will help you avoid fines, delays, and compliance headaches in 2025.
Brody and Associates regularly advises management on compliance with the latest local, state and federal employment laws. If we can be of assistance in this area, please contact us at info@brodyandassociates.com or 203.454.0560.
