The Fair Labor Standards Act gives you the right to a minimum wage. The Department of Labor's Wage and Hour Division enforces these rights.
Get answers to frequently asked questions about minimum wage.
Federal minimum wage
The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour. This rate applies to covered nonexempt workers.
The minimum wage for employees who receive tips is $2.13 per hour. The amount of tips plus the $2.13 must reach at least $7.25 per hour. If not, your employer must pay to make up the difference.
State minimum wages
Some states and cities set their own minimum wage rates. If the federal and local government minimum wages are different, the higher wage rate applies. Check the minimum wage in your state.
Your state may also have different minimum wages for employees who receive tips. Find out if your state has a higher minimum wage for tipped workers.
LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023
Have a question?
Ask a real person any government-related question for free. They will get you the answer or let you know where to find it.
Call USAGov 
Chat with USAGov 