Quebec minimum wage is set to increase to $13.10/hr as of May 1st, 2020

Quebec minimum wage is currently $12.50. As of May 1, 2020 the minimum wage will increase to $13.10/h. Different type of worker are subject to different minimum wage as shown in the table below. 

Please note that as per the Employment Standards Act, the minimum wage applies to all employees paid by salary, commission or for piece work. 

The minimum overtime rate will continue to be 1.5 times the worker’s regular rate.

Some common questions

Every spring, many of you call to ask us about the implementation of new minimum wage increases. Here are two of the most common queries:

May 1st falls in the middle of my pay period. Can I wait until the next pay period to raise the minimum wage?

The answer: no.

The new minimum wage comes into effect on May 1, 2020. Any hour worked starting on that date must be paid at a minimum rate of $ 13.10.

Example: The pay period is April 26 to May 09, 2019. The employee works 8 hours a day, Monday to Friday and is paid at the minimum wage.

Rate from April 26 to 30: $12.50/h.

Rate from May 1 to 9: $13.10/h.

Do I have to increase the salaries of my employees who currently earn more than the minimum wage?

The answer: no.

You have an obligation to pay at least the minimum wage to all your employees. Beyond that, wage increases remain at your discretion.

Do I have to give my employees a raise every year?

The answer: no.

As long as all employees are earning at least minimum wage, all other increases are at the discretion of the employer. 

Minimum wage increase over the years