Minimum Wage in Kentucky
The current Kentucky minimum wage, the tipped wage, scheduled increases and overtime rules, from the official source.
Short answer: $7.25 per hour (in effect since July 1, 2009). If the federal minimum wage is raised above this amount, the Kentucky rate rises to match it on the same date. KRS 337.275(1)
| Minimum wage | $7.25 per hour (in effect since July 1, 2009). If the federal minimum wage is raised above this amount, the Kentucky rate rises to match it on the same date. No increase is currently scheduled under state law. Source: KRS 337.275(1) |
|---|---|
| Tipped minimum wage | Employers may pay employees who regularly receive more than $30 a month in tips the federal tipped cash wage, as long as wages plus tips reach at least the full minimum wage each week. Employers may not keep employees' tips; employees may agree to pool tips among themselves. The federal tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour. Source: KRS 337.275(2) |
| Overtime | Time and one-half for hours worked over 40 in a workweek. Employees covered by the overtime law may not be given comp time instead of overtime pay. There is no daily overtime and no limit on daily hours. |
Where to get help in Kentucky
- Kentucky Education and Labor Cabinet, Department of Workplace Standards, Division of Wages and Hours
- File a complaint or claim
More Kentucky employment law
- Final Paycheck Laws in Kentucky
- Meal and Rest Break Laws in Kentucky
- Wrongful Termination in Kentucky
- All Kentucky employment law rules
FAQ
What is the minimum wage in Kentucky?
$7.25 per hour (in effect since July 1, 2009). If the federal minimum wage is raised above this amount, the Kentucky rate rises to match it on the same date.
What is the tipped minimum wage in Kentucky?
Employers may pay employees who regularly receive more than $30 a month in tips the federal tipped cash wage, as long as wages plus tips reach at least the full minimum wage each week. Employers may not keep employees' tips; employees may agree to pool tips among themselves.
What are the overtime rules in Kentucky?
Time and one-half for hours worked over 40 in a workweek. Employees covered by the overtime law may not be given comp time instead of overtime pay. There is no daily overtime and no limit on daily hours.
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.