New Jersey Minimum Wage 2025: $15.49/Hour Guide
Quick Answer: New Jersey minimum wage is $15.49/hour in 2025—among the highest in the nation. Indexed to inflation with annual increases. Tipped workers receive $5.62/hour cash wage. Strong enforcement through Department of Labor with liquidated damages for violations.
New Jersey has strong minimum wage protections.
New Jersey Minimum Wage Rates
2025 Standard Rate
Most employees: $15.49/hour
Effective: January 1, 2025
Adjustment: Annual CPI increases
Tipped Employees
Cash wage: $5.62/hour
Tip credit: Employer takes credit if tips reach minimum
Employer obligation: Make up any shortfall
Other Rates (2025)
Seasonal employees (small employers): $14.53/hour
Agricultural workers: $12.81/hour
Who’s Covered
Most Employees
Includes:
- Private sector workers
- Part-time employees
- Temporary workers
- Most industries
Exemptions
May not apply to:
- Some agricultural workers (different rate)
- Certain seasonal workers
- Car salespeople
- Outside salespeople
Annual Increases
CPI Indexing
How it works:
- Adjusted each January 1
- Based on Consumer Price Index
- Automatic increases
- No legislative action needed
History
Recent progression:
- Reached $15 through scheduled increases
- Now indexed to inflation
- Among highest state rates
Tipped Employees
Cash Wage
Requirements:
- $5.62/hour minimum cash wage
- Tips must bring total to $15.49
- Employer makes up shortfall
- All tips belong to employee
Tip Credit
Employer may:
- Pay lower cash wage
- Take credit for tips
- Only if tips reach minimum
Violations
Common issues:
- Not making up shortfall
- Illegal tip pooling
- Taking tips
- Tip deductions
Recovering Unpaid Wages
Department of Labor
Wage claim process:
- Phone: 609-292-2323
- Online filing available
- Investigation
- Recovery assistance
Private Lawsuit
Court options:
- Sue employer directly
- Liquidated damages (up to 200%)
- Attorney’s fees
- Class actions
Liquidated Damages
Available:
- Up to 200% of wages owed
- For willful violations
- Strong deterrent
Common Scenarios
Scenario 1: Below Minimum
Situation: Paid $14/hour.
Analysis: Below NJ minimum. File wage claim. Entitled to back wages plus damages.
Scenario 2: Tipped Below Minimum
Situation: $5.62 cash wage, tips don’t reach $15.49.
Analysis: Employer must make up difference.
Scenario 3: Unpaid Training
Situation: Not paid during training.
Analysis: Training time must be paid at minimum wage.
Scenario 4: Illegal Deductions
Situation: Deductions bring pay below minimum.
Analysis: Cannot deduct below minimum wage.
Employer Obligations
Required Postings
Must display:
- Minimum wage notice
- In prominent location
- In English and Spanish
Record-Keeping
Must maintain:
- Hours worked
- Wages paid
- Pay dates
- Deductions
Pay Stubs
Must provide:
- Detailed pay statements
- Hours and rates
- Deductions itemized
Special Categories
Agricultural Workers
2025 rate: $12.81/hour
Coverage: Most farm workers
Working toward: Parity with standard rate
Seasonal Workers
Small seasonal employers: $14.53/hour
Limited definition: Specific criteria apply
Youth Workers
No subminimum:
- NJ doesn’t have youth subminimum
- All workers get full minimum
Frequently Asked Questions
What is NJ minimum wage 2025?
$15.49/hour for most employees.
Does minimum wage increase automatically?
Yes. Indexed to CPI each January.
What about tipped workers?
$5.62/hour cash wage, with tips to reach $15.49.
How do I report violations?
Contact NJ Department of Labor: 609-292-2323.
What damages are available?
Up to 200% liquidated damages plus attorney’s fees.
Related Topics
Take Action
If not receiving minimum wage:
- Calculate wages owed
- Gather pay stubs
- Document hours worked
- Contact DOL or attorney
- Remember liquidated damages
Legal Disclaimer
This article provides general information about New Jersey minimum wage and is not legal advice. For specific advice, consult a licensed New Jersey employment attorney.
For official information:
- NJ Department of Labor: https://www.nj.gov/labor/ | 609-292-2323