Quick Answer
Comprehensive guide to Colorado wage and hour laws covering minimum wage, overtime requirements, rest breaks, and the Colorado Wage Act.
Colorado provides strong wage and hour protections with a high minimum wage, mandatory rest breaks, and daily overtime requirements—all exceeding federal standards.
Quick Facts: Colorado Wage Laws
| Topic | Colorado | Federal (FLSA) |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Wage | $14.81/hour | $7.25/hour |
| Denver Minimum | $18.29/hour | N/A |
| Overtime | After 40 hrs/week OR 12 hrs/day | After 40 hours/week |
| Rest Breaks | 10 min per 4 hours | Not required |
| Meal Breaks | 30 min after 5 hours | Not required |
Minimum Wage (2026)
Statewide
$14.81/hour
Adjusts annually with CPI.
Denver
$18.29/hour (higher local rate)
Tipped Employees
- Tip credit: $3.02/hour
- Cash wage: $11.79/hour minimum
Overtime
Colorado's Unique Rules
Daily overtime:
- Time-and-a-half after 12 hours in a day
- After 12 consecutive hours
Weekly overtime:
- Time-and-a-half after 40 hours
Mandatory Breaks
Rest Breaks
- 10-minute paid break per 4 hours worked
- Required by law
Meal Breaks
- 30-minute meal break after 5 hours
- Duty-free (unpaid if not on duty)
Filing Wage Claims
Colorado Department of Labor
For wage complaints.
Private Lawsuit
File in court for unpaid wages.
Finding Legal Help
Free Resources
- CDLE: cdle.colorado.gov
- WHD (Federal): dol.gov/agencies/whd
Related Resources
Legal Disclaimer
This guide provides general information about Colorado wage and hour laws and is not legal advice. For advice about your situation, consult a licensed Colorado employment attorney.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is tipped Employees?
What is colorado's Unique Rules?
What is rest Breaks?
What is meal Breaks?
What is colorado Department of Labor?
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