Wage Garnishment in Illinois
Calculate Your Protected Paycheck in Illinois
Illinois: Dual Protection Through Low Cap + High Exemption
Illinois uses one of the strongest garnishment formulas in the country, combining two protective elements: a 15% cap on gross wages AND a 45× state minimum wage exemption. This dual approach means Illinois workers have both a lower percentage taken AND a higher protected floor than federal law provides.
The Illinois Formula
- Cap: 15% of gross wages (not disposable earnings — more protective)
- Exemption threshold: 45× state minimum wage ($15.00 × 45 = $675/week protected)
How It Compares
A worker earning $1,000/week:
| Rule | Garnishable | Protected |
|---|---|---|
| Illinois (15% gross + $675 exempt) | $150 | $850 |
| Federal baseline (25% disposable + $217.50 exempt) | ~$187 | ~$813 |
| New York (10% gross) | $100 | $900 |
Illinois offers the strongest combined protection among the non-ban states for moderate-income workers.
Legislative History
Illinois strengthened its garnishment protections significantly in recent years. The state’s $15.00 minimum wage (phased in fully) increases the protected floor automatically as the minimum wage rises. Illinois also ties its exemption to the state minimum wage, not the stagnant federal $7.25, meaning protections automatically improve as the state minimum wage increases.
Statute: 735 ILCS 5/12-803 — Official source
This calculator is for consumer debt garnishment only. Not legal advice. Rules vary by debt type (student loans, child support, taxes). Verify with official sources before making any financial or legal decisions.