Minimum Wage in New Jersey
The current New Jersey minimum wage, the tipped wage, scheduled increases and overtime rules, from the official source.
Short answer: $15.92 per hour for most employers since January 1, 2026; $15.23 for seasonal employers and employers with fewer than 6 employees; $14.20 for agricultural employers; $18.92 for direct care staff at long-term care facilities. New Jersey minimum wage chart (MW-570)
| Minimum wage | $15.92 per hour for most employers since January 1, 2026; $15.23 for seasonal employers and employers with fewer than 6 employees; $14.20 for agricultural employers; $18.92 for direct care staff at long-term care facilities. Scheduled increase on January 1, 2027: $16.48 for most employers; $16.25 for seasonal and small employers; $15.00 for agricultural employers; $19.48 for long-term care direct care staff. The rate may keep rising each January 1 with inflation. |
|---|---|
| Tipped minimum wage | Employers must pay tipped workers a cash wage of at least $6.05 per hour in 2026, and wages plus tips must reach the full minimum wage; the employer must make up any difference. Scheduled change: cash wage of $6.61 per hour on January 1, 2027. |
| Overtime | Time and one-half for hours actually worked over 40 in a 7-day workweek. No daily overtime and no premium required for weekends or holidays. Employees cannot waive overtime pay. |
Where to get help in New Jersey
- New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, Division of Wage and Hour Compliance
- File a complaint or claim
More New Jersey employment law
- Final Paycheck Laws in New Jersey
- Meal and Rest Break Laws in New Jersey
- Wrongful Termination in New Jersey
- Paid Sick Leave in New Jersey
- All New Jersey employment law rules
FAQ
What is the minimum wage in New Jersey?
$15.92 per hour for most employers since January 1, 2026; $15.23 for seasonal employers and employers with fewer than 6 employees; $14.20 for agricultural employers; $18.92 for direct care staff at long-term care facilities.
What is the tipped minimum wage in New Jersey?
Employers must pay tipped workers a cash wage of at least $6.05 per hour in 2026, and wages plus tips must reach the full minimum wage; the employer must make up any difference.
What are the overtime rules in New Jersey?
Time and one-half for hours actually worked over 40 in a 7-day workweek. No daily overtime and no premium required for weekends or holidays. Employees cannot waive overtime pay.
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.