Minimum Wage in District of Columbia
The current District of Columbia minimum wage, the tipped wage, scheduled increases and overtime rules, from the official source.
Short answer: $18.40 per hour, effective July 1, 2026. The rate is adjusted every July 1 for inflation (Washington-area consumer price index). If the federal minimum wage ever exceeds the D.C. rate, D.C. D.C. Code § 32-1003(a); U.S. Department of Labor state minimum wage table
| Minimum wage | $18.40 per hour, effective July 1, 2026. The rate is adjusted every July 1 for inflation (Washington-area consumer price index). If the federal minimum wage ever exceeds the D.C. rate, D.C. employers must pay the federal rate plus $1. Next scheduled change: an inflation adjustment on July 1, 2027; the amount is announced by the Department of Employment Services. Re-verified 2026-10-27. |
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| Tipped minimum wage | Since July 1, 2026, the tipped minimum cash wage is 56% of the full minimum wage ($10.30 per hour), with tips on top. Tips plus wages must reach the full minimum wage. Employers must give written notice of their tip policies. Scheduled increases: the tipped minimum rises to 60% of the minimum wage on July 1, 2028, 65% on July 1, 2030, 70% on July 1, 2032, and 75% on July 1, 2034 (D.C. Code § 32-1003(f)(7)–(10)). Re-verified 2026-10-27. |
| Overtime | Time-and-a-half after 40 hours in a workweek. No daily overtime rule. Re-verified 2026-10-27. Source: D.C. Code § 32-1003(c) |
Where to get help in District of Columbia
More District of Columbia employment law
- Final Paycheck Laws in District of Columbia
- Meal and Rest Break Laws in District of Columbia
- Wrongful Termination in District of Columbia
- Paid Sick Leave in District of Columbia
- Non-Compete Agreements in District of Columbia
- All District of Columbia employment law rules
FAQ
What is the minimum wage in District of Columbia?
$18.40 per hour, effective July 1, 2026. The rate is adjusted every July 1 for inflation (Washington-area consumer price index). If the federal minimum wage ever exceeds the D.C. rate, D.C. employers must pay the federal rate plus $1.
What is the tipped minimum wage in District of Columbia?
Since July 1, 2026, the tipped minimum cash wage is 56% of the full minimum wage ($10.30 per hour), with tips on top. Tips plus wages must reach the full minimum wage. Employers must give written notice of their tip policies.
What are the overtime rules in District of Columbia?
Time-and-a-half after 40 hours in a workweek. No daily overtime rule.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.