What is the federal minimum wage for youth workers?
The federal minimum wage provisions are contained in the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). The federal minimum wage is $5.85 per hour. However, a special minimum wage of $4.25 per hour applies to young workers under the age of 20 during their first 90 consecutive calendar days of employment with an employer. After 90 consecutive days of employment, or when the worker reaches age 20 (whichever comes first), the worker must receive the current minimum wage of $5.85 per hour effective July 24, 2007; $6.55 per hour effective July 24, 2008; and $7.25 per hour effective July 24, 2009. Other programs that allow for payment of less than the full federal minimum wage apply to workers with disabilities, full-time students, and student-learners. These programs are not limited to the employment of young workers. Where federal and state laws have different minimum wage rates, the higher standard applies.
The federal minimum wage provisions are contained in the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour. However, a special minimum wage of $4.25 per hour applies to young workers under the age of 20 during their first 90 consecutive calendar days of employment with an employer. After 90 consecutive days of employment, or when the worker reaches age 20 (whichever comes first), the worker must receive the current minimum wage of $7.25 per hour effective July 24, 2009; $6.55 per hour effective July 24, 2008; and $5.85 per hour effective July 24, 2007. Other programs that allow for payment of less than the full federal minimum wage apply to workers with disabilities, full-time students, and student-learners. These programs are not limited to the employment of young workers. Where federal and state laws have different minimum wage rates, the higher standard applies. 5.
