Minimum Wage in Montana
State-specific overview · Employment Law
Montana's minimum wage adjusts annually for inflation, currently exceeding the federal rate.
How Montana treats Minimum Wage
Montana indexes its minimum wage to inflation each January 1st, meaning the rate changes yearly based on the Consumer Price Index. As of 2024, Montana's minimum wage exceeds the federal minimum of $7.25 per hour. Employers must pay the higher of Montana's state minimum or the federal minimum wage. Tipped employees receive the same minimum wage as other workers; tips do not reduce the employer's wage obligation.
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 Montana.