California minimum wage rules
From January 1, 2026 the state minimum wage is $16.90 an hour for all employers, whatever their size (the separate rates by employer size ended when both reached $15.50 on January 1, 2023). Tips cannot be credited toward it. Learners may be paid 85% of the minimum wage in their first 160 hours in an occupation new to them. Covered fast food restaurant employees have a $20.00 minimum from April 1, 2024, and covered health care workers a separate schedule from October 16, 2024. Cities and counties may set higher rates. None of these amounts is calculated.
Last checked . Not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Labor or any state agency.
California minimum wage (state rate; amounts not calculated)
From January 1, 2026 the state minimum wage is $16.90 an hour for all employers, whatever their size (the separate rates by employer size ended when both reached $15.50 on January 1, 2023). Tips cannot be credited toward it. Learners may be paid 85% of the minimum wage in their first 160 hours in an occupation new to them. Covered fast food restaurant employees have a $20.00 minimum from April 1, 2024, and covered health care workers a separate schedule from October 16, 2024. Cities and counties may set higher rates. None of these amounts is calculated.
California minimum wage: not calculated by HoursReady
HoursReady calculates no minimum wage for California.
$16.90, $15.50, $20.00 in the rule text: not calculated by HoursReady.
This page explains published rules. It is not legal advice. Exemption questions need a professional. Not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Labor or any state agency.
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