As of May 1, 2019 the minimum wage will be set at $12.50 and $10.05 for employees receiving tips.
There is also a minimum wage for pickers of small fruit. For raspberry pickers, the rate increases to $3.71 per kilogram, and to $0.99 per kilogram for strawberry pickers.
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, 2019. Any hour worked starting on that date must be paid at a minimum rate of $ 12.50.
Example: The pay period is April 28 to May 11, 2019. The employee works 8 hours a day, Monday to Friday and is paid at the minimum wage.
Rate from April 29 to 30: $12/h.
Rate from May 1 to 10: $12.50/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.
Minimum wage increase over the years
Rate | 2016 | 2017 (Until April 30) | 2018 | 2019 |
| Minimum wage (general rate) | $10.75/h | $11.25/h | $12.00/h | $12.50/h |
| Minimum wage for tipped employees | $9.20/h | $9.45/h | $9.80/h | $10.05/h |
| Rate for raspberry pickers | $3.18/kg | $3.33/kg | $3.56/kg | $3.71/kg |
| Rate for strawberry pickers | $0.85/kg | $0.89/kg | $0.95/kg | $0.99/kg |
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