Illinois Launches I-CASH Website to Help Workers Claim Unpaid Wages
SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to combat wage theft, Illinois workers can now determine if they are owed unpaid wages through the newly enhanced I-CASH website, thanks to the advocacy of State Senator Robert Peters and Treasurer Michael Frerichs.
“Let’s be clear: Wage theft is theft. It’s in fact the leading form of theft,” stated Peters (D-Chicago), emphasizing the importance of ensuring that workers have the opportunity to recover unpaid wages. The Illinois Department of Labor actively investigates wage theft cases and recovers back wages from employers who violate state law. However, these investigations often take considerable time, leaving workers in limbo.
The I-CASH platform allows workers to search for unpaid wages and penalties that the Illinois Department of Labor has pursued and collected, making it easier for them to claim what they rightfully deserve. This initiative stems from House Bill 3227, which Peters championed last year. This legislation guarantees that money recovered and held for more than three years will be allocated to the Wage Theft Enforcement Fund and the Unclaimed Property Trust Fund, rather than being transferred to the state’s General Revenue Fund as was previously the case.
“Hard-working people in Illinois deserve to be paid for their labor,” Frerichs added, expressing gratitude for the collaboration with the Illinois Department of Labor and legislative efforts from Peters and Representative Evans.
Workers can visit icash.illinoistreasurer.gov in the upcoming months to check if there are any back wages waiting for them to claim, marking a significant advancement in protecting the rights of employees across Illinois.
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