What is the federal minimum wage?

The federal minimum wage is the lowest hourly wage that employers in the United States are allowed to pay their employees. According to the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), the current federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour. This minimum wage applies to most employees across the country, although some states and the District of Columbia have a higher minimum wage. In Washington State, employers must pay at least $12.00 per hour for all employees. This is higher than the current federal minimum wage and applies to any employee who works more than 90 days in a calendar year. The rate will increase to $13.50 on January 1, 2021, and will continue to increase annually until it reaches $16.00 per hour on January 1, 2023. It is important to note that the federal minimum wage does not apply to certain employees, such as those who are exempt from the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). This includes certain farmworkers, certain student employees, and other types of workers. In addition, some employers in certain industries may pay workers a special minimum wage that is lower than the federal minimum wage. Finally, tipped employees must be paid a minimum of $9.53 per hour in Washington State. Employers must ensure that their tipped employees are making at least minimum wage in the form of tips and wages combined. Overall, the federal minimum wage is currently set at $7.25 per hour; however, employers in Washington State must pay employees at least $12.00 per hour.

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What is the federal minimum wage?

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