Federal law sets the floor, but many states have higher minimum wages and stronger worker protections. This guide covers key wage and hour rules in every state.
Minimum wage variations
Many states set minimum wages above the federal rate. Some cities set even higher local minimums.- State minimum wage rates
- Tipped employee wages
- Youth and training wages
- Local minimum wage laws
Overtime requirements
Federal law requires 1.5x pay over 40 hours per week. Some states require daily overtime or double-time pay.Final paycheck deadlines
States set strict deadlines for final paychecks when you quit or are fired. Penalties apply for late payment.Resource FAQ
What if my employer pays less than minimum wage?
File a wage claim with your state labor agency. You can recover unpaid wages plus penalties.
When must I receive my final paycheck?
Deadlines vary from immediately to the next regular payday. Check your state law for specific rules.
About FreeDemandLetter
FreeDemandLetter provides free, AI-powered demand letter generation with location-specific legal citations. Our content is reviewed by subject matter specialists and regularly updated to reflect current laws. We help thousands of people resolve disputes effectively—but we're not lawyers, and this isn't legal advice. For complex situations, consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.
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