Minimum Wage Increases Take Effect This Month
The minimum wage will increase throughout New York State, except in New York City at the end of the month. The minimum wage on Long Island and Westchester will increase to $15.00 per hour, joining New York City at this rate on December 31st. In the rest of the State, the minimum wage will increase to $13.20 hour, on its way to $15.00 over the next few years.
The increase in the minimum wage causes the cash wage for tipped foodservice workers to increase as well. As of December 31, 2021 the cash wage will be $10.00 per hour for tipped foodservice workers in New York City, Long Island, and Westchester. The cash wage for tipped foodservice workers in the rest of the State will increase to $8.80 per hour. As a reminder, you can only pay your tipped foodservice workers the cash wage if, when combined with their tips, they earn at least the minimum hourly wage.
In addition to the changes in the minimum wage and the cash wage for tipped foodservice workers, the minimum wage for service employees, the rates for uniform allowances & meal credits, and the salary required to be eligible for the executive and administrative exemption all increase at the end of December. More information on those rates is available here.
You’re also required to post “in plain view” an updated minimum wage poster. Consult with your payroll advisor, the NYS Department of Labor, or the Association office if you need more information.