We wanted to remind New Jersey employers that starting January 1, 2025, the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL) has announced an increase in the statewide minimum wage to $15.49 per hour for most employees. This increase is based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
However, there are specific exceptions to this new minimum wage:
- Seasonal and Small Employers: The minimum wage for seasonal businesses and those with up to five employees will rise by 80 cents to $14.53 per hour. This rate will continue to increase annually, reaching $15 per hour by 2028.
- Farm Workers: The minimum wage for farm workers will increase from $12.81 to $13.40 per hour, with a gradual rise to $15 per hour by 2030.
- Long-term Care Workers: Their minimum wage will increase by 36 cents to $18.49 per hour.
- Tipped Workers: The minimum cash wage for tipped workers will rise from $5.26 to $5.62 per hour. If the combined tips and cash wage do not meet the $15.49 per hour threshold, employers are required to make up the difference.
For additional information:
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