Minimum Wage in Rhode Island
State-specific overview · Employment Law
Rhode Island sets its own minimum wage above the federal level and adjusts it annually.
How Rhode Island treats Minimum Wage
Rhode Island establishes a state minimum wage that exceeds the federal minimum and increases periodically to keep pace with inflation and cost of living. The state's minimum wage applies to all covered employees unless a higher federal minimum applies to their specific industry. Tipped employees in Rhode Island must receive a higher base wage than the federal tipped minimum, with tips making up the difference to reach the full minimum wage.
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 Rhode Island.