By Inés Cruz, Esq. LLM. – Review by: Leonor Coyle, Esq.
Minimum wage rates have increased for New Yorkers for 2026.

The new year is welcomed by New Yorkers with a new increased minimum wage rate.  Normally, the rate is established depending on three major aspects: 

a. The region/ county where work is performed.

b. If according to the tasks that the worker performs, it is subject to receive tips and/or 

c. The number of employees working for the employer. 

According to the Department of Labor (DOL), starting January 1, 2026, all hourly paid workers must, at minimum, receive the following rates: 

  • $17.00 per hour for workers located in: 

    •  The City of New York. 

    • Long Island & Westchester 

  • $16.00 per hour for workers located in: 

    •  The rest of the State of New York. 

Remember, regardless of your immigration status, you have the right to be paid each hour you work at the above-mentioned rates. Additionally, note that we can consider processing your claims even if you were or are paid solely in cash. 

NOTE: In 2021, tip credit was eliminated for employees working in the following industries: nail salons, porters, car wash and other industries. The employer in those types of industries now is subject to paying workers the full minimum wage per hour established above.  

If you have any further questions related to the minimum wage that you must receive, or any other question related to the wage you must receive, do not hesitate to contact us at 212-943-9080. All consultations are free and confidential. 

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