Minimum Wage by State (2026)

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Alabama (AL) minimum wage is about $7.25 per hour, the same as the federal floor. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Alabama employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Alabama employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $7.25 an Hour Actually Comes to in Alabama

At $7.25 an hour, a 40-hour week is $290.00 before deductions, which is roughly $15,080 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $217.50, and a 20-hour week to $145.00.

Alabama does not set a rate above the federal floor, so the federal $7.25 applies to covered employees. That figure has not moved since 2009, so in practice most employers here pay well above it to hire at all; the legal minimum and the market minimum are different numbers.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Alabama

What is the minimum wage in Alabama?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Alabama is about $7.25 per hour, matching the federal floor. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Alabama employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Alaska (AK) minimum wage is about $14.00 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Alaska employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Alaska employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $14.00 an Hour Actually Comes to in Alaska

At $14.00 an hour, a 40-hour week is $560.00 before deductions, which is roughly $29,120 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $420.00, and a 20-hour week to $280.00.

Alaska sets its own rate above the federal $7.25, and where a state and the federal government disagree the higher figure governs. A city ordinance can raise it again, so an employer with sites in more than one city can owe different minimums to people doing identical work.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Alaska

What is the minimum wage in Alaska?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Alaska is about $14.00 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Alaska employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Arizona (AZ) minimum wage is about $15.15 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Some Arizona cities set a higher local minimum wage than the state, including Flagstaff and Tucson. Always check the rate for the specific city where your employees work.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Arizona employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $15.15 an Hour Actually Comes to in Arizona

At $15.15 an hour, a 40-hour week is $606.00 before deductions, which is roughly $31,512 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $454.50, and a 20-hour week to $303.00.

Arizona sets its own rate above the federal $7.25, and where a state and the federal government disagree the higher figure governs. A city ordinance can raise it again, so an employer with sites in more than one city can owe different minimums to people doing identical work.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Arizona

What is the minimum wage in Arizona?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Arizona is about $15.15 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Arizona employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Arkansas (AR) minimum wage is about $11.00 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Arkansas employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Arkansas employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $11.00 an Hour Actually Comes to in Arkansas

At $11.00 an hour, a 40-hour week is $440.00 before deductions, which is roughly $22,880 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $330.00, and a 20-hour week to $220.00.

Arkansas sets its own rate above the federal $7.25, and where a state and the federal government disagree the higher figure governs. A city ordinance can raise it again, so an employer with sites in more than one city can owe different minimums to people doing identical work.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Arkansas

What is the minimum wage in Arkansas?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Arkansas is about $11.00 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Arkansas employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the California (CA) minimum wage is about $16.90 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Some California cities set a higher local minimum wage than the state, including Los Angeles and San Francisco. Always check the rate for the specific city where your employees work.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. California employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $16.90 an Hour Actually Comes to in California

At $16.90 an hour, a 40-hour week is $676.00 before deductions, which is roughly $35,152 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $507.00, and a 20-hour week to $338.00.

California sets its own rate above the federal $7.25, and where a state and the federal government disagree the higher figure governs. A city ordinance can raise it again, so an employer with sites in more than one city can owe different minimums to people doing identical work.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in California

What is the minimum wage in California?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in California is about $16.90 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can California employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Colorado (CO) minimum wage is about $15.16 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Some Colorado cities set a higher local minimum wage than the state, including Denver. Always check the rate for the specific city where your employees work.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Colorado employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $15.16 an Hour Actually Comes to in Colorado

At $15.16 an hour, a 40-hour week is $606.40 before deductions, which is roughly $31,533 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $454.80, and a 20-hour week to $303.20.

Colorado sets its own rate above the federal $7.25, and where a state and the federal government disagree the higher figure governs. A city ordinance can raise it again, so an employer with sites in more than one city can owe different minimums to people doing identical work.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Colorado

What is the minimum wage in Colorado?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Colorado is about $15.16 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Colorado employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Connecticut (CT) minimum wage is about $16.94 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Connecticut employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Connecticut employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $16.94 an Hour Actually Comes to in Connecticut

At $16.94 an hour, a 40-hour week is $677.60 before deductions, which is roughly $35,235 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $508.20, and a 20-hour week to $338.80.

Connecticut sets its own rate above the federal $7.25, and where a state and the federal government disagree the higher figure governs. A city ordinance can raise it again, so an employer with sites in more than one city can owe different minimums to people doing identical work.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Connecticut

What is the minimum wage in Connecticut?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Connecticut is about $16.94 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Connecticut employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Delaware (DE) minimum wage is about $15.00 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Delaware employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Delaware employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $15.00 an Hour Actually Comes to in Delaware

At $15.00 an hour, a 40-hour week is $600.00 before deductions, which is roughly $31,200 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $450.00, and a 20-hour week to $300.00.

Delaware sets its own rate above the federal $7.25, and where a state and the federal government disagree the higher figure governs. A city ordinance can raise it again, so an employer with sites in more than one city can owe different minimums to people doing identical work.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Delaware

What is the minimum wage in Delaware?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Delaware is about $15.00 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Delaware employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the District of Columbia (DC) minimum wage is about $18.40 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most District of Columbia employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. District of Columbia employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $18.40 an Hour Actually Comes to in District of Columbia

At $18.40 an hour, a 40-hour week is $736.00 before deductions, which is roughly $38,272 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $552.00, and a 20-hour week to $368.00.

District of Columbia sets its own rate above the federal $7.25, and where a state and the federal government disagree the higher figure governs. A city ordinance can raise it again, so an employer with sites in more than one city can owe different minimums to people doing identical work.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in District of Columbia

What is the minimum wage in District of Columbia?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in District of Columbia is about $18.40 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can District of Columbia employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Florida (FL) minimum wage is about $14.00 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Florida employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Florida employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $14.00 an Hour Actually Comes to in Florida

At $14.00 an hour, a 40-hour week is $560.00 before deductions, which is roughly $29,120 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $420.00, and a 20-hour week to $280.00.

Florida sets its own rate above the federal $7.25, and where a state and the federal government disagree the higher figure governs. A city ordinance can raise it again, so an employer with sites in more than one city can owe different minimums to people doing identical work.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Florida

What is the minimum wage in Florida?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Florida is about $14.00 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Florida employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Georgia (GA) minimum wage is about $7.25 per hour, the same as the federal floor. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Georgia employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Georgia employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $7.25 an Hour Actually Comes to in Georgia

At $7.25 an hour, a 40-hour week is $290.00 before deductions, which is roughly $15,080 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $217.50, and a 20-hour week to $145.00.

Georgia does not set a rate above the federal floor, so the federal $7.25 applies to covered employees. That figure has not moved since 2009, so in practice most employers here pay well above it to hire at all; the legal minimum and the market minimum are different numbers.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Georgia

What is the minimum wage in Georgia?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Georgia is about $7.25 per hour, matching the federal floor. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Georgia employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Hawaii (HI) minimum wage is about $16.00 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Hawaii employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Hawaii employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $16.00 an Hour Actually Comes to in Hawaii

At $16.00 an hour, a 40-hour week is $640.00 before deductions, which is roughly $33,280 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $480.00, and a 20-hour week to $320.00.

Hawaii sets its own rate above the federal $7.25, and where a state and the federal government disagree the higher figure governs. A city ordinance can raise it again, so an employer with sites in more than one city can owe different minimums to people doing identical work.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Hawaii

What is the minimum wage in Hawaii?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Hawaii is about $16.00 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Hawaii employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Idaho (ID) minimum wage is about $7.25 per hour, the same as the federal floor. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Idaho employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Idaho employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $7.25 an Hour Actually Comes to in Idaho

At $7.25 an hour, a 40-hour week is $290.00 before deductions, which is roughly $15,080 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $217.50, and a 20-hour week to $145.00.

Idaho does not set a rate above the federal floor, so the federal $7.25 applies to covered employees. That figure has not moved since 2009, so in practice most employers here pay well above it to hire at all; the legal minimum and the market minimum are different numbers.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Idaho

What is the minimum wage in Idaho?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Idaho is about $7.25 per hour, matching the federal floor. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Idaho employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Illinois (IL) minimum wage is about $15.00 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Some Illinois cities set a higher local minimum wage than the state, including Chicago. Always check the rate for the specific city where your employees work.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Illinois employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $15.00 an Hour Actually Comes to in Illinois

At $15.00 an hour, a 40-hour week is $600.00 before deductions, which is roughly $31,200 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $450.00, and a 20-hour week to $300.00.

Illinois sets its own rate above the federal $7.25, and where a state and the federal government disagree the higher figure governs. A city ordinance can raise it again, so an employer with sites in more than one city can owe different minimums to people doing identical work.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Illinois

What is the minimum wage in Illinois?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Illinois is about $15.00 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Illinois employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Indiana (IN) minimum wage is about $7.25 per hour, the same as the federal floor. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Indiana employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Indiana employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $7.25 an Hour Actually Comes to in Indiana

At $7.25 an hour, a 40-hour week is $290.00 before deductions, which is roughly $15,080 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $217.50, and a 20-hour week to $145.00.

Indiana does not set a rate above the federal floor, so the federal $7.25 applies to covered employees. That figure has not moved since 2009, so in practice most employers here pay well above it to hire at all; the legal minimum and the market minimum are different numbers.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Indiana

What is the minimum wage in Indiana?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Indiana is about $7.25 per hour, matching the federal floor. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Indiana employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Iowa (IA) minimum wage is about $7.25 per hour, the same as the federal floor. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Iowa employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Iowa employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $7.25 an Hour Actually Comes to in Iowa

At $7.25 an hour, a 40-hour week is $290.00 before deductions, which is roughly $15,080 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $217.50, and a 20-hour week to $145.00.

Iowa does not set a rate above the federal floor, so the federal $7.25 applies to covered employees. That figure has not moved since 2009, so in practice most employers here pay well above it to hire at all; the legal minimum and the market minimum are different numbers.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Iowa

What is the minimum wage in Iowa?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Iowa is about $7.25 per hour, matching the federal floor. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Iowa employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Kansas (KS) minimum wage is about $7.25 per hour, the same as the federal floor. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Kansas employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Kansas employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $7.25 an Hour Actually Comes to in Kansas

At $7.25 an hour, a 40-hour week is $290.00 before deductions, which is roughly $15,080 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $217.50, and a 20-hour week to $145.00.

Kansas does not set a rate above the federal floor, so the federal $7.25 applies to covered employees. That figure has not moved since 2009, so in practice most employers here pay well above it to hire at all; the legal minimum and the market minimum are different numbers.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Kansas

What is the minimum wage in Kansas?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Kansas is about $7.25 per hour, matching the federal floor. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Kansas employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Kentucky (KY) minimum wage is about $7.25 per hour, the same as the federal floor. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Kentucky employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Kentucky employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $7.25 an Hour Actually Comes to in Kentucky

At $7.25 an hour, a 40-hour week is $290.00 before deductions, which is roughly $15,080 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $217.50, and a 20-hour week to $145.00.

Kentucky does not set a rate above the federal floor, so the federal $7.25 applies to covered employees. That figure has not moved since 2009, so in practice most employers here pay well above it to hire at all; the legal minimum and the market minimum are different numbers.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Kentucky

What is the minimum wage in Kentucky?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Kentucky is about $7.25 per hour, matching the federal floor. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Kentucky employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Louisiana (LA) minimum wage is about $7.25 per hour, the same as the federal floor. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Louisiana employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Louisiana employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $7.25 an Hour Actually Comes to in Louisiana

At $7.25 an hour, a 40-hour week is $290.00 before deductions, which is roughly $15,080 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $217.50, and a 20-hour week to $145.00.

Louisiana does not set a rate above the federal floor, so the federal $7.25 applies to covered employees. That figure has not moved since 2009, so in practice most employers here pay well above it to hire at all; the legal minimum and the market minimum are different numbers.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Louisiana

What is the minimum wage in Louisiana?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Louisiana is about $7.25 per hour, matching the federal floor. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Louisiana employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Maine (ME) minimum wage is about $15.10 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Maine employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Maine employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $15.10 an Hour Actually Comes to in Maine

At $15.10 an hour, a 40-hour week is $604.00 before deductions, which is roughly $31,408 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $453.00, and a 20-hour week to $302.00.

Maine sets its own rate above the federal $7.25, and where a state and the federal government disagree the higher figure governs. A city ordinance can raise it again, so an employer with sites in more than one city can owe different minimums to people doing identical work.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Maine

What is the minimum wage in Maine?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Maine is about $15.10 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Maine employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Maryland (MD) minimum wage is about $15.00 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Some Maryland cities set a higher local minimum wage than the state, including Montgomery County. Always check the rate for the specific city where your employees work.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Maryland employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $15.00 an Hour Actually Comes to in Maryland

At $15.00 an hour, a 40-hour week is $600.00 before deductions, which is roughly $31,200 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $450.00, and a 20-hour week to $300.00.

Maryland sets its own rate above the federal $7.25, and where a state and the federal government disagree the higher figure governs. A city ordinance can raise it again, so an employer with sites in more than one city can owe different minimums to people doing identical work.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Maryland

What is the minimum wage in Maryland?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Maryland is about $15.00 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Maryland employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Massachusetts (MA) minimum wage is about $15.00 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Massachusetts employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Massachusetts employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $15.00 an Hour Actually Comes to in Massachusetts

At $15.00 an hour, a 40-hour week is $600.00 before deductions, which is roughly $31,200 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $450.00, and a 20-hour week to $300.00.

Massachusetts sets its own rate above the federal $7.25, and where a state and the federal government disagree the higher figure governs. A city ordinance can raise it again, so an employer with sites in more than one city can owe different minimums to people doing identical work.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Massachusetts

What is the minimum wage in Massachusetts?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Massachusetts is about $15.00 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Massachusetts employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Michigan (MI) minimum wage is about $13.73 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Michigan employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Michigan employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $13.73 an Hour Actually Comes to in Michigan

At $13.73 an hour, a 40-hour week is $549.20 before deductions, which is roughly $28,558 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $411.90, and a 20-hour week to $274.60.

Michigan sets its own rate above the federal $7.25, and where a state and the federal government disagree the higher figure governs. A city ordinance can raise it again, so an employer with sites in more than one city can owe different minimums to people doing identical work.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Michigan

What is the minimum wage in Michigan?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Michigan is about $13.73 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Michigan employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Minnesota (MN) minimum wage is about $11.41 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Some Minnesota cities set a higher local minimum wage than the state, including Minneapolis and St. Paul. Always check the rate for the specific city where your employees work.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Minnesota employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $11.41 an Hour Actually Comes to in Minnesota

At $11.41 an hour, a 40-hour week is $456.40 before deductions, which is roughly $23,733 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $342.30, and a 20-hour week to $228.20.

Minnesota sets its own rate above the federal $7.25, and where a state and the federal government disagree the higher figure governs. A city ordinance can raise it again, so an employer with sites in more than one city can owe different minimums to people doing identical work.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Minnesota

What is the minimum wage in Minnesota?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Minnesota is about $11.41 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Minnesota employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Mississippi (MS) minimum wage is about $7.25 per hour, the same as the federal floor. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Mississippi employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Mississippi employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $7.25 an Hour Actually Comes to in Mississippi

At $7.25 an hour, a 40-hour week is $290.00 before deductions, which is roughly $15,080 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $217.50, and a 20-hour week to $145.00.

Mississippi does not set a rate above the federal floor, so the federal $7.25 applies to covered employees. That figure has not moved since 2009, so in practice most employers here pay well above it to hire at all; the legal minimum and the market minimum are different numbers.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Mississippi

What is the minimum wage in Mississippi?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Mississippi is about $7.25 per hour, matching the federal floor. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Mississippi employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Missouri (MO) minimum wage is about $15.00 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Missouri employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Missouri employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $15.00 an Hour Actually Comes to in Missouri

At $15.00 an hour, a 40-hour week is $600.00 before deductions, which is roughly $31,200 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $450.00, and a 20-hour week to $300.00.

Missouri sets its own rate above the federal $7.25, and where a state and the federal government disagree the higher figure governs. A city ordinance can raise it again, so an employer with sites in more than one city can owe different minimums to people doing identical work.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Missouri

What is the minimum wage in Missouri?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Missouri is about $15.00 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Missouri employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Montana (MT) minimum wage is about $10.85 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Montana employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Montana employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $10.85 an Hour Actually Comes to in Montana

At $10.85 an hour, a 40-hour week is $434.00 before deductions, which is roughly $22,568 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $325.50, and a 20-hour week to $217.00.

Montana sets its own rate above the federal $7.25, and where a state and the federal government disagree the higher figure governs. A city ordinance can raise it again, so an employer with sites in more than one city can owe different minimums to people doing identical work.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Montana

What is the minimum wage in Montana?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Montana is about $10.85 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Montana employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Nebraska (NE) minimum wage is about $15.00 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Nebraska employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Nebraska employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $15.00 an Hour Actually Comes to in Nebraska

At $15.00 an hour, a 40-hour week is $600.00 before deductions, which is roughly $31,200 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $450.00, and a 20-hour week to $300.00.

Nebraska sets its own rate above the federal $7.25, and where a state and the federal government disagree the higher figure governs. A city ordinance can raise it again, so an employer with sites in more than one city can owe different minimums to people doing identical work.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Nebraska

What is the minimum wage in Nebraska?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Nebraska is about $15.00 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Nebraska employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Nevada (NV) minimum wage is about $12.00 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Nevada employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Nevada employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $12.00 an Hour Actually Comes to in Nevada

At $12.00 an hour, a 40-hour week is $480.00 before deductions, which is roughly $24,960 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $360.00, and a 20-hour week to $240.00.

Nevada sets its own rate above the federal $7.25, and where a state and the federal government disagree the higher figure governs. A city ordinance can raise it again, so an employer with sites in more than one city can owe different minimums to people doing identical work.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Nevada

What is the minimum wage in Nevada?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Nevada is about $12.00 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Nevada employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the New Hampshire (NH) minimum wage is about $7.25 per hour, the same as the federal floor. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most New Hampshire employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. New Hampshire employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $7.25 an Hour Actually Comes to in New Hampshire

At $7.25 an hour, a 40-hour week is $290.00 before deductions, which is roughly $15,080 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $217.50, and a 20-hour week to $145.00.

New Hampshire does not set a rate above the federal floor, so the federal $7.25 applies to covered employees. That figure has not moved since 2009, so in practice most employers here pay well above it to hire at all; the legal minimum and the market minimum are different numbers.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in New Hampshire

What is the minimum wage in New Hampshire?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in New Hampshire is about $7.25 per hour, matching the federal floor. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can New Hampshire employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the New Jersey (NJ) minimum wage is about $15.92 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most New Jersey employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. New Jersey employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $15.92 an Hour Actually Comes to in New Jersey

At $15.92 an hour, a 40-hour week is $636.80 before deductions, which is roughly $33,114 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $477.60, and a 20-hour week to $318.40.

New Jersey sets its own rate above the federal $7.25, and where a state and the federal government disagree the higher figure governs. A city ordinance can raise it again, so an employer with sites in more than one city can owe different minimums to people doing identical work.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in New Jersey

What is the minimum wage in New Jersey?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in New Jersey is about $15.92 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can New Jersey employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the New Mexico (NM) minimum wage is about $12.00 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Some New Mexico cities set a higher local minimum wage than the state, including Santa Fe and Albuquerque. Always check the rate for the specific city where your employees work.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. New Mexico employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $12.00 an Hour Actually Comes to in New Mexico

At $12.00 an hour, a 40-hour week is $480.00 before deductions, which is roughly $24,960 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $360.00, and a 20-hour week to $240.00.

New Mexico sets its own rate above the federal $7.25, and where a state and the federal government disagree the higher figure governs. A city ordinance can raise it again, so an employer with sites in more than one city can owe different minimums to people doing identical work.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in New Mexico

What is the minimum wage in New Mexico?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in New Mexico is about $12.00 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can New Mexico employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the New York (NY) minimum wage is about $16.00 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Some New York cities set a higher local minimum wage than the state, including New York City and Long Island/Westchester counties ($17.00, a higher rate set by state law). Always check the rate for the specific city where your employees work.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. New York employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $16.00 an Hour Actually Comes to in New York

At $16.00 an hour, a 40-hour week is $640.00 before deductions, which is roughly $33,280 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $480.00, and a 20-hour week to $320.00.

New York sets its own rate above the federal $7.25, and where a state and the federal government disagree the higher figure governs. A city ordinance can raise it again, so an employer with sites in more than one city can owe different minimums to people doing identical work.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in New York

What is the minimum wage in New York?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in New York is about $16.00 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can New York employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the North Carolina (NC) minimum wage is about $7.25 per hour, the same as the federal floor. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most North Carolina employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. North Carolina employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $7.25 an Hour Actually Comes to in North Carolina

At $7.25 an hour, a 40-hour week is $290.00 before deductions, which is roughly $15,080 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $217.50, and a 20-hour week to $145.00.

North Carolina does not set a rate above the federal floor, so the federal $7.25 applies to covered employees. That figure has not moved since 2009, so in practice most employers here pay well above it to hire at all; the legal minimum and the market minimum are different numbers.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in North Carolina

What is the minimum wage in North Carolina?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in North Carolina is about $7.25 per hour, matching the federal floor. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can North Carolina employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the North Dakota (ND) minimum wage is about $7.25 per hour, the same as the federal floor. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most North Dakota employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. North Dakota employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $7.25 an Hour Actually Comes to in North Dakota

At $7.25 an hour, a 40-hour week is $290.00 before deductions, which is roughly $15,080 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $217.50, and a 20-hour week to $145.00.

North Dakota does not set a rate above the federal floor, so the federal $7.25 applies to covered employees. That figure has not moved since 2009, so in practice most employers here pay well above it to hire at all; the legal minimum and the market minimum are different numbers.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in North Dakota

What is the minimum wage in North Dakota?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in North Dakota is about $7.25 per hour, matching the federal floor. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can North Dakota employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Ohio (OH) minimum wage is about $11.00 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Ohio employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Ohio employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $11.00 an Hour Actually Comes to in Ohio

At $11.00 an hour, a 40-hour week is $440.00 before deductions, which is roughly $22,880 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $330.00, and a 20-hour week to $220.00.

Ohio sets its own rate above the federal $7.25, and where a state and the federal government disagree the higher figure governs. A city ordinance can raise it again, so an employer with sites in more than one city can owe different minimums to people doing identical work.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Ohio

What is the minimum wage in Ohio?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Ohio is about $11.00 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Ohio employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Oklahoma (OK) minimum wage is about $7.25 per hour, the same as the federal floor. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Oklahoma employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Oklahoma employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $7.25 an Hour Actually Comes to in Oklahoma

At $7.25 an hour, a 40-hour week is $290.00 before deductions, which is roughly $15,080 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $217.50, and a 20-hour week to $145.00.

Oklahoma does not set a rate above the federal floor, so the federal $7.25 applies to covered employees. That figure has not moved since 2009, so in practice most employers here pay well above it to hire at all; the legal minimum and the market minimum are different numbers.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Oklahoma

What is the minimum wage in Oklahoma?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Oklahoma is about $7.25 per hour, matching the federal floor. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Oklahoma employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Oregon (OR) minimum wage is about $15.55 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Some Oregon cities set a higher local minimum wage than the state, including Portland. Always check the rate for the specific city where your employees work.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Oregon employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $15.55 an Hour Actually Comes to in Oregon

At $15.55 an hour, a 40-hour week is $622.00 before deductions, which is roughly $32,344 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $466.50, and a 20-hour week to $311.00.

Oregon sets its own rate above the federal $7.25, and where a state and the federal government disagree the higher figure governs. A city ordinance can raise it again, so an employer with sites in more than one city can owe different minimums to people doing identical work.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Oregon

What is the minimum wage in Oregon?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Oregon is about $15.55 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Oregon employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Pennsylvania (PA) minimum wage is about $7.25 per hour, the same as the federal floor. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Pennsylvania employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Pennsylvania employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $7.25 an Hour Actually Comes to in Pennsylvania

At $7.25 an hour, a 40-hour week is $290.00 before deductions, which is roughly $15,080 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $217.50, and a 20-hour week to $145.00.

Pennsylvania does not set a rate above the federal floor, so the federal $7.25 applies to covered employees. That figure has not moved since 2009, so in practice most employers here pay well above it to hire at all; the legal minimum and the market minimum are different numbers.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Pennsylvania

What is the minimum wage in Pennsylvania?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Pennsylvania is about $7.25 per hour, matching the federal floor. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Pennsylvania employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Rhode Island (RI) minimum wage is about $16.00 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Rhode Island employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Rhode Island employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $16.00 an Hour Actually Comes to in Rhode Island

At $16.00 an hour, a 40-hour week is $640.00 before deductions, which is roughly $33,280 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $480.00, and a 20-hour week to $320.00.

Rhode Island sets its own rate above the federal $7.25, and where a state and the federal government disagree the higher figure governs. A city ordinance can raise it again, so an employer with sites in more than one city can owe different minimums to people doing identical work.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Rhode Island

What is the minimum wage in Rhode Island?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Rhode Island is about $16.00 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Rhode Island employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the South Carolina (SC) minimum wage is about $7.25 per hour, the same as the federal floor. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most South Carolina employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. South Carolina employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $7.25 an Hour Actually Comes to in South Carolina

At $7.25 an hour, a 40-hour week is $290.00 before deductions, which is roughly $15,080 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $217.50, and a 20-hour week to $145.00.

South Carolina does not set a rate above the federal floor, so the federal $7.25 applies to covered employees. That figure has not moved since 2009, so in practice most employers here pay well above it to hire at all; the legal minimum and the market minimum are different numbers.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in South Carolina

What is the minimum wage in South Carolina?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in South Carolina is about $7.25 per hour, matching the federal floor. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can South Carolina employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the South Dakota (SD) minimum wage is about $11.85 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most South Dakota employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. South Dakota employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $11.85 an Hour Actually Comes to in South Dakota

At $11.85 an hour, a 40-hour week is $474.00 before deductions, which is roughly $24,648 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $355.50, and a 20-hour week to $237.00.

South Dakota sets its own rate above the federal $7.25, and where a state and the federal government disagree the higher figure governs. A city ordinance can raise it again, so an employer with sites in more than one city can owe different minimums to people doing identical work.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in South Dakota

What is the minimum wage in South Dakota?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in South Dakota is about $11.85 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can South Dakota employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Tennessee (TN) minimum wage is about $7.25 per hour, the same as the federal floor. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Tennessee employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Tennessee employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $7.25 an Hour Actually Comes to in Tennessee

At $7.25 an hour, a 40-hour week is $290.00 before deductions, which is roughly $15,080 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $217.50, and a 20-hour week to $145.00.

Tennessee does not set a rate above the federal floor, so the federal $7.25 applies to covered employees. That figure has not moved since 2009, so in practice most employers here pay well above it to hire at all; the legal minimum and the market minimum are different numbers.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Tennessee

What is the minimum wage in Tennessee?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Tennessee is about $7.25 per hour, matching the federal floor. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Tennessee employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Texas (TX) minimum wage is about $7.25 per hour, the same as the federal floor. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Texas employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Texas employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $7.25 an Hour Actually Comes to in Texas

At $7.25 an hour, a 40-hour week is $290.00 before deductions, which is roughly $15,080 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $217.50, and a 20-hour week to $145.00.

Texas does not set a rate above the federal floor, so the federal $7.25 applies to covered employees. That figure has not moved since 2009, so in practice most employers here pay well above it to hire at all; the legal minimum and the market minimum are different numbers.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Texas

What is the minimum wage in Texas?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Texas is about $7.25 per hour, matching the federal floor. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Texas employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Utah (UT) minimum wage is about $7.25 per hour, the same as the federal floor. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Utah employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Utah employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $7.25 an Hour Actually Comes to in Utah

At $7.25 an hour, a 40-hour week is $290.00 before deductions, which is roughly $15,080 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $217.50, and a 20-hour week to $145.00.

Utah does not set a rate above the federal floor, so the federal $7.25 applies to covered employees. That figure has not moved since 2009, so in practice most employers here pay well above it to hire at all; the legal minimum and the market minimum are different numbers.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Utah

What is the minimum wage in Utah?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Utah is about $7.25 per hour, matching the federal floor. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Utah employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Vermont (VT) minimum wage is about $14.42 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Vermont employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Vermont employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $14.42 an Hour Actually Comes to in Vermont

At $14.42 an hour, a 40-hour week is $576.80 before deductions, which is roughly $29,994 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $432.60, and a 20-hour week to $288.40.

Vermont sets its own rate above the federal $7.25, and where a state and the federal government disagree the higher figure governs. A city ordinance can raise it again, so an employer with sites in more than one city can owe different minimums to people doing identical work.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Vermont

What is the minimum wage in Vermont?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Vermont is about $14.42 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Vermont employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Virginia (VA) minimum wage is about $12.77 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Virginia employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Virginia employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $12.77 an Hour Actually Comes to in Virginia

At $12.77 an hour, a 40-hour week is $510.80 before deductions, which is roughly $26,562 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $383.10, and a 20-hour week to $255.40.

Virginia sets its own rate above the federal $7.25, and where a state and the federal government disagree the higher figure governs. A city ordinance can raise it again, so an employer with sites in more than one city can owe different minimums to people doing identical work.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Virginia

What is the minimum wage in Virginia?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Virginia is about $12.77 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Virginia employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Washington (WA) minimum wage is about $17.13 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Some Washington cities set a higher local minimum wage than the state, including Seattle. Always check the rate for the specific city where your employees work.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Washington employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $17.13 an Hour Actually Comes to in Washington

At $17.13 an hour, a 40-hour week is $685.20 before deductions, which is roughly $35,630 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $513.90, and a 20-hour week to $342.60.

Washington sets its own rate above the federal $7.25, and where a state and the federal government disagree the higher figure governs. A city ordinance can raise it again, so an employer with sites in more than one city can owe different minimums to people doing identical work.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Washington

What is the minimum wage in Washington?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Washington is about $17.13 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Washington employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the West Virginia (WV) minimum wage is about $8.75 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most West Virginia employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. West Virginia employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $8.75 an Hour Actually Comes to in West Virginia

At $8.75 an hour, a 40-hour week is $350.00 before deductions, which is roughly $18,200 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $262.50, and a 20-hour week to $175.00.

West Virginia sets its own rate above the federal $7.25, and where a state and the federal government disagree the higher figure governs. A city ordinance can raise it again, so an employer with sites in more than one city can owe different minimums to people doing identical work.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in West Virginia

What is the minimum wage in West Virginia?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in West Virginia is about $8.75 per hour, above the federal $7.25. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can West Virginia employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Wisconsin (WI) minimum wage is about $7.25 per hour, the same as the federal floor. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Wisconsin employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Wisconsin employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $7.25 an Hour Actually Comes to in Wisconsin

At $7.25 an hour, a 40-hour week is $290.00 before deductions, which is roughly $15,080 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $217.50, and a 20-hour week to $145.00.

Wisconsin does not set a rate above the federal floor, so the federal $7.25 applies to covered employees. That figure has not moved since 2009, so in practice most employers here pay well above it to hire at all; the legal minimum and the market minimum are different numbers.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Wisconsin

What is the minimum wage in Wisconsin?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Wisconsin is about $7.25 per hour, matching the federal floor. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Wisconsin employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.

Federal vs. State Minimum Wage

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour and has been since July 2009. When a state (or city) sets a higher minimum, the higher rate is what employers must pay. When the state rate is lower or nonexistent, the federal $7.25 applies to employees covered by the FLSA.

As of September 2026, the Wyoming (WY) minimum wage is about $7.25 per hour, the same as the federal floor. Rates are revisited regularly (often each January), so confirm the current figure with the official source below before you run payroll.

Most Wyoming employers follow the state rate, but always confirm whether any local ordinance sets a higher minimum where you operate.

Tipped Employees

Tipped workers can be paid a lower cash wage as long as tips bring them up to at least the full applicable minimum wage. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but many states require a higher tipped wage, and a few require the full minimum with no tip credit. Wyoming employers should verify the tipped rules that apply locally.

Staying Compliant

Because minimum-wage rates change and can differ by city, the safest approach is to check the official rate at the start of each year and whenever you hire in a new locality. Keep accurate time records so you can always show that pay met or exceeded the minimum for every hour worked.

What $7.25 an Hour Actually Comes to in Wyoming

At $7.25 an hour, a 40-hour week is $290.00 before deductions, which is roughly $15,080 a year for someone working full time all year. A 30-hour week comes to $217.50, and a 20-hour week to $145.00.

Wyoming does not set a rate above the federal floor, so the federal $7.25 applies to covered employees. That figure has not moved since 2009, so in practice most employers here pay well above it to hire at all; the legal minimum and the market minimum are different numbers.

Minimum wage is a floor on the regular rate, not on the paycheck. Deductions for uniforms, tools or till shortages cannot legally push someone below it, which is where most minimum-wage claims actually originate rather than in the headline rate.

Common questions in Wyoming

What is the minimum wage in Wyoming?

As of September 2026, the minimum wage in Wyoming is about $7.25 per hour, matching the federal floor. Confirm the current figure before running payroll, as rates change.

Can Wyoming employers pay tipped workers a lower wage?

Yes, a lower cash wage is allowed as long as tips bring the employee up to the full applicable minimum wage. Some states require a higher tipped cash wage.