Changes to Equal Pay Registration Certificate

By Kathryn O'Connor, PHR, SHRM-CP, CCP, GRP, Director, Compensation Services
Published May 20, 2025

Private employers with 100 or more Illinois employees are required to obtain an Equal Pay Registration Certificate (EPRC) from the Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL). This certification must be renewed every two years by submitting individual employee pay data, affirming compliance with state and federal equal pay laws, and paying a $150 application fee.

Earlier this year, the IDOL announced several important changes to the EPRC application process that will take effect in 2025. One notable update is the launch of an enhanced online application portal. The new system incorporates fillable forms and DocuSign features, making it easier for employers to complete and submit their applications electronically.

In addition to these system improvements, the IDOL is now requiring additional employee census data. Employers must report each employee’s hourly or salaried status, the base hourly rate for hourly workers, and whether each employee is covered by a collective bargaining agreement. The state claims these expanded data requirements will improve its ability to assess pay equity across organizations.

To help employers prepare, the IDOL has published an updated data template on the EPRC webpage, along with revised FAQs. Employers are strongly encouraged to review these changes carefully and ensure their internal processes are aligned with the new requirements well before their next certification deadline.

HR Source members should contact us through the HR Hotline Online or at 800-448-4584 for additional support and guidance.