WorkShare IL is a voluntary program, available through the Illinois Department of Employment Security, that provides employers facing a decline in business with an alternative to layoffs. The program allows an employer to reduce the number of hours worked in any unit of their business in order to avoid permanent layoffs. Each employee in an affected unit continues to work but experiences a reduction in hours that ranges from 20% to 60%. Employees receive a corresponding percentage of unemployment benefits during the period of temporary reduction to offset the reduction in earnings.
Learn more about the benefits for employers and employees, how to register, and more on the WorkShare IL site.