Minimum Wage Laws and Minimum Wage Law Exceptions

Under the FLSA, business in the United States that make at least $500,000 per year are obligated to pay their employees a minimum of $7.25 per hour. This law also applies to:

• Domestic workers
• Hospitals
• Schools
• Smaller businesses where workers produce goods for commerce
• Government agencies at any level

This federal law establishing the minimum wage for American workers applies to the majority of the employees in this country. There are a few exceptions to this minimum wage law, however, including:

• Workers who are younger than 20 years old may be paid $4.25 per hour for the first 90 days of their employment.
• Disabled workers, apprentices and interns, and certain full-time students may be exempted from federal minimum wage laws in special situations, outlined by the Department of Labor.

Minimum Wage for Tipped Employees

People who work in food service or in other jobs where they earn tips must be paid at least $2.13 per hour if they meet the following qualifications:

• Their hourly wage plus tips equals at least $7.25 (minimum wage) per hour
• They earn at least $30 in tips each month
• They keep all of their tips

Contact a Minimum Wage Lawyer

While the federal government guarantees American employees a minimum hourly wage of $7.25, some states have additional laws that may entitle workers to a higher minimum wage. State laws regarding minimum wage can vary from state to state, so it’s a good idea for workers who believe they are being underpaid to work with an experienced minimum wage lawyer to ensure that their rights are protected. If you work in the United States and earn less than the federal minimum wage, you could be entitled to compensation and back pay. To learn more about your rights, contact us to schedule a free evaluation of your claim with a respected minimum wage lawyer.