Overview of Idaho's Minimum Wage Requirements
As of 2024, the minimum wage in Idaho is set at $7.25 per hour, which is in line with the federal minimum wage. This rate applies to all employees, with a few exceptions. For instance, tipped employees have a minimum wage of $3.35 per hour, and there is a training minimum wage of $4.25 per hour for employees under 20 years old during their first 90 calendar days of employment.
Interestingly, the minimum wage in Idaho has remained unchanged since 2009. Despite several proposals to increase it, none have been successful so far. However, the Idaho Legislature is currently considering a bill that could potentially increase the minimum wage to $10.00 per hour by 2025. The outcome of this bill is still uncertain.
Understanding Local Minimum Wage Variations
The minimum wage requirements in various cities and counties in Idaho are the same as the state's minimum wage requirements. All employees must be paid at least $7.25 per hour, a rate that has been effective since July 24, 2009.
For tipped employees (those who regularly receive more than $30 a month in tips), their tips combined with the employer's cash wage must equal the minimum hourly wage. If it doesn't, the employer is required to make up the difference. The minimum tipped wage in Idaho is $3.35 per hour, effective since July 24, 2007.
Minimum Wage Eligibility and Exemptions
In Idaho, the minimum wage is set at $7.25 per hour, aligning with the federal minimum wage. However, there are specific exemptions to this rule. For instance, tipped employees can be paid a direct wage of not less than $3.35 per hour, provided that the tips received by the employee, combined with the direct wages, meet the minimum wage of $7.25 per hour.
There are also specific exemptions under Idaho Code §44 -1504. These include employees employed in a bona fide executive, administrative or professional capacity, those engaged in domestic service, outside salesmen, seasonal employees of a nonprofit camping program, and any child under the age of 16 years working part-time or at odd jobs not exceeding four hours per day with any one employer.
Minimum Wage Considerations and Compliance Tips
For food business employers in Idaho, there are several key minimum wage legal and compliance considerations. Firstly, the combined amount of tips and direct wages must meet the minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. If the total does not meet the minimum wage, the employer is required to make up the difference.
Secondly, for new hires under the age of 20, employers can pay a wage of not less than $4.25 per hour for the first 90 consecutive calendar days of employment. After this period, the wage must be increased to at least the standard minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. Lastly, employers are not required by Idaho law to provide breaks or meal periods to employees unless it is the employer’s policy to do so.
FAQs
- What is the current minimum wage in Idaho? The current minimum wage in Idaho is $7.25 per hour.
- Are there any exemptions to the minimum wage in Idaho? Yes, there are several exemptions including tipped employees, new hires under 20, and certain occupations.
- What is the minimum wage for tipped employees in Idaho? The minimum wage for tipped employees in Idaho is $3.35 per hour.
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