What Is The Difference Between State And Federal Minimum Wage?

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What Is The Difference Between State And Federal Minimum Wage?

Most Washington employers are subject to both federal and state minimum wage and overtime laws. The effect of this dual coverage is that the employer must follow the higher standard, meaning the one most beneficial to the employee, when there are differing requirements in the laws. For example, since state law currently requires a higher minimum wage rate than federal, all Washington employers must pay the state rate. Exception: State minimum wage does not apply to work performed on federal land.

Other Washington Labor and Employment FAQs

Q: What is the minimum wage in Washington?
A: L&I enforces the state's minimum wage law. The minimum wage is $8.55 per hour. The state's minimum wage is recalculated each year in September as a result of an … More
Q: My Employer Has Not Paid Me All The Commissions I Earned At My Previous Job. What Can I Do?
A: If you were not paid minimum wage and overtime correctly for the hours you worked, you may be able to file a wage claim through L&I. However, L&I has no jurisdiction … More
Q: Is An Employer Required To Pay Time And One-Half For Working On A Holiday?
A: Overtime or premium pay is not required for working on holidays or weekends unless those hours are in excess of 40 for the workweek. Holiday pay is a benefit that may … More
Q: Am I Entitled To Be Paid For Unused Vacation Time Or Receive Severance Pay Upon Termination?
A: Vacation pay, holiday pay, sick leave, and severance pay are considered benefits and may be paid based on the employer's policies. There is no requirement in state law … More
Q: When Is Overtime Pay Required Under Washington Law?
A: Most employees are entitled to be paid time and onehalf their regular rate of pay for any time worked over 40 hours in a sevenday workweek. There are some … More
Q: How Frequently Must Employees Be Paid?
A: Employers must pay employees on regular established paydays at no longer than monthly intervals.
Q: Is There A Limit To The Number Of Hours An Employer Can Require You To Work?
A: There are no laws limiting the number of hours adult employees may be required to work. (See "Overtime Pay" section for information about working more than 40 hours in … More
Q: My Employer Promised A Raise After Six Months But I Havent Received It. Do I Have Any Recourse?
A: An employer must pay the agreed wage until such time that a new rate is agreed upon. Once you and your employer have specifically discussed and agreed upon a new rate, … More
Q: Can A Supervisor Change The Hours Recorded On A Timecard?
A: Employers must pay employees for all hours worked. It is not legal for a supervisor to change your timecard if you have worked the hours. If you suspect this is … More
Q: Is It Legal To Require Direct Deposit?
A: Yes, it is legal to require direct deposit, as long as there is no cost to the employee.