How Much Does It Cost to Hire an Employee in Illinois? (2026)

State-specific payroll taxes, workers' comp, and total employer costs in Illinois.

Total Cost at $60K Salary

$65,720

Cost multiplier: 1.1x

SUTA Rate (Mid)

2.75%

Wage base: $13,590

Workers' Comp Rate

1.19%

Has state income tax

Illinois Employer Tax Details

State-specific payroll obligations for employers

SUTA Rate Range 0.5% – 6.75%
SUTA New Employer Rate (typical) 2.75%
SUTA Wage Base $13,590
Workers' Compensation (avg) 1.19% of payroll
State Income Tax Yes

Example Employer Costs in Illinois

Mandatory employer taxes only (no benefits or overhead)

Component $40,000 Salary $60,000 Salary $80,000 Salary
Social Security (6.2%) $2,480 $3,720 $4,960
Medicare (1.45%) $580 $870 $1,160
FUTA $42 $42 $42
SUTA (IL) $374 $374 $374
Workers' Comp $476 $714 $952
Total Employer Taxes $3,952 $5,720 $7,488
Total Cost (salary + taxes) $43,952 (1.1x) $65,720 (1.1x) $87,488 (1.09x)

These estimates include mandatory employer payroll taxes only. Add benefits ($7K-$17K) and overhead (~10% of salary) for full cost.

How Illinois Compares

Illinois's typical SUTA rate of 2.75% is above the national average of ~1.70%.

Workers' compensation at 1.19% of payroll is below the national average of ~1.20%.

Calculate Your Exact Employee Cost

Use our interactive calculator with your specific salary, state, and benefits to get an exact number.

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