New Jersey Minimum Wage 2026
Current rate, tipped employee rules, and what to do if you are underpaid.
Current minimum wage
$15.49/hr
Rate for most employers; seasonal and agricultural workers may differ
Federal vs state
State rate applies ($15.49/hr)
Last verified
2025
Who is covered by the New Jersey minimum wage
The minimum wage applies to most employees in New Jersey. Common exemptions include:
- •Certain agricultural or farm workers (federal FLSA exemptions may apply)
- •Tipped employees — a lower base rate may apply if tips close the gap
- •Student workers at certain educational institutions (may qualify for a subminimum rate)
- •Independent contractors — minimum wage laws do not apply to genuine contractors
Being paid below minimum wage?
- 1. Calculate the shortfall: hours worked × (minimum wage − actual pay).
- 2. Keep records: pay stubs, time records, and any written communications.
- 3. File a complaint with the New Jersey Department of Labor or the US DOL Wage and Hour Division.
- 4. You may also bring a private lawsuit to recover up to 3 years of back pay plus liquidated damages.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum wage in New Jersey in 2026?
The minimum wage in New Jersey is $15.49/hr. Rate for most employers; seasonal and agricultural workers may differ
Does the federal minimum wage apply in New Jersey?
The federal minimum wage of $7.25/hr applies nationwide, but New Jersey's state minimum wage of $15.49/hr is higher — and the higher rate must be paid. Under the Fair Labor Standards Act, when a state rate exceeds the federal rate, the state rate controls.
What is the minimum wage for tipped employees in New Jersey?
Tipped employees in New Jersey may be paid a lower "tipped minimum wage" under federal or state law, provided tips bring total hourly earnings up to the full minimum wage. If tips do not make up the difference, the employer must pay the shortfall. The specific tipped credit rules in New Jersey are set by state law — check the New Jersey Department of Labor for the current tipped rate.
Are there local minimum wages higher than New Jersey's state rate?
Some cities and counties in New Jersey may have enacted local minimum wages higher than the state rate. Where a local ordinance applies, employers must pay the highest of federal, state, or local rates. Check with your local city or county government for any applicable local minimum wage that may apply to your job.
What can I do if my employer pays me less than minimum wage in New Jersey?
If your employer pays below the minimum wage in New Jersey, you can: (1) file a wage complaint with the New Jersey Department of Labor; (2) file a federal complaint with the US Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division; or (3) bring a private civil lawsuit to recover unpaid wages. You may be entitled to back pay for up to 2–3 years plus additional damages. Retaliation for filing a wage complaint is illegal. Visit the New Jersey Department of Labor at https://www.nj.gov/labor/wageandhour/ to start a claim.