New York Minimum Wage Lawyers

Minimum Wage in New York City, Long Island, Westchester, and New York State

All New York workers are entitled to a minimum wage of $13.20 per hour, and workers in New York City, Long Island, and Westchester are entitled to a minimum wage of $15 per hour (though the wages often increase annually). Tipped employees may have a lower cash wage due to the “tip credit,” but they are still entitled to the state minimum wage. New York sets specific minimum cash wage and tip credit requirements based on the industry (e.g., hospitality) and region. Fast food workers must make at least $15 per hour statewide, regardless of where they work. 

Some industries (like the fast food industry) have special rules known as “wage orders,” but businesses must apply for credits toward meeting the minimum wage rate.

Violating New York Minimum Wage Law is illegal, and employers are subject to criminal prosecution and penalties, as well as action in civil court.

Workers who have not received minimum wage may be able to collect back wages with interest and liquidated damages. USA Employment Lawyers can help.

Call us at (800) 483-0998 to learn how we can pursue quick and methodical results on your behalf.

Are There Exceptions to New York Minimum Wage Laws?

No. Minimum wage rates differ based on region and industry, but all New York workers are entitled to an hourly minimum rate, though certain limited exemptions exist for specific worker categories (e.g., certain small farmworkers or family employees).

Minimum wage laws operate differently for regularly tipped workers, but they still exist. Other industries with special laws include:

• Hospitality industry
• Fast food workers
• Farm workers
• Building service industry
• Non-profit organizations
• Miscellaneous industries and occupations

Although some employees are exempt from the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and federal minimum wage, New York State laws override these exemptions. Each industry, occupation, and region has rules to support its workers with a minimum wage.

If an employee is subject to state and federal employment laws, the laws that are most favorable to them are the ones that count.

Our New York minimum wage attorneys would be proud to help you apply the correct laws to your case.

Who Enforces Minimum Wage Laws in New York?

The New York State Department of Labor (DOL) enforces minimum wage laws throughout New York. According to the DOL:

“The Commissioner of Labor may require an employer to pay minimum wage underpayments and liquidated damages PLUS interest and civil penalties up to 200 percent of the unpaid wages.”

Employees can bring about enforcement action by filing a complaint with the DOL. They can also bring civil actions against their employers in court.

If you want to recover your unpaid wages, look no further than USA Employment Lawyers. We can help you file a lawsuit and fight for maximum compensation.

Why Choose Us?

USA Employment Lawyers is a different type of law firm that uses an ethical approach to obtain quick and methodical results. We work closely with our clients and offer personalized representation and constant communication to truly make a difference.

Put our team – and the law – to work for you today. Call us at (800) 483-0998 or contact us online to schedule a free, confidential case evaluation.