Minimum Wage in Kentucky
State-specific overview · Employment Law
Kentucky applies the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour without a higher state requirement.
How Kentucky treats Minimum Wage
Kentucky has no state minimum wage above the federal standard, so the federal floor of $7.25 per hour applies to all covered employees. The state permits tip credits consistent with federal law, allowing employers to credit tips against the minimum wage obligation for tipped employees. Kentucky does not automatically adjust its minimum wage, requiring legislative changes to raise the rate.
The general definition of Minimum Wage
The lowest hourly wage an employer is legally required to pay employees.
Minimum wage is the lowest hourly rate that employers must pay workers by law. The federal minimum wage in the United States is currently $7.25 per hour, but many states and cities have set their own higher minimums. Employers cannot pay workers less than the applicable minimum wage, even if the worker agrees to it. The minimum wage applies to most employees, though some categories (like certain trainees or workers with disabilities) may have exceptions. Violations can result in lawsuits, penalties, and back-pay owed to employees.
Read the full Minimum Wage entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Kentucky.