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CAN YOUR ILLINOIS (IL) EMPLOYER ASK FOR A DOCTORS SICK NOTE

Yes, in Illinois (IL), employers can legally ask for a doctor’s sick note or medical certification if:

1. You miss multiple consecutive days of work — especially if it triggers employer policies on extended absences.
2. You request sick leave under the company’s policy — some companies have rules requiring a doctor’s note after a set number of days absent.
3. You request protected leave — like under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) for longer absences (more than 3 consecutive days), where medical certification is required.

✅ However, employers in Illinois must follow these guidelines:

• The request must be reasonable and consistent with company policy.
• They cannot demand details about your specific diagnosis — only confirmation that your condition justifies the time off.
• Under Illinois law, especially the Illinois Employee Sick Leave Act, if you’re using paid sick leave, employers can verify absences but must respect privacy.

✅ For Short-Term Sick Leave:

• For 1-2 days off, many employers don’t require a note.
• Some might have policies stating that a note is needed after 3 consecutive sick days or if abuse of sick leave is suspected.

✅ Summary

Yes, your IL employer can ask for a doctor’s note, but they can’t require excessive details about your medical condition, and the request should align with their established policies.

If you’d like, I can help you GET a professional doctor’s note that follow the guidance of Illinois sick leave laws.