Employment Law Aid

North Carolina Wage and Hour Laws: Minimum Wage, Overtime & Pay Rights (2026)

Updated 2026-12-28
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Quick Answer

Comprehensive guide to North Carolina wage and hour laws covering minimum wage, overtime requirements, and the NC Wage and Hour Act.

North Carolina follows federal minimum wage standards. The NC Wage and Hour Act provides additional protections for wage payment and timing.


Quick Facts: North Carolina Wage Laws

Topic North Carolina Federal (FLSA)
Minimum Wage $7.25/hour $7.25/hour
Overtime After 40 hours/week After 40 hours/week

Minimum Wage

Standard Rate

$7.25/hour (federal minimum applies)

Tipped Employees

  • Cash wage: $2.13/hour
  • With tips must equal $7.25

Overtime

Federal FLSA rules apply—time-and-a-half after 40 hours per workweek.


NC Wage and Hour Act

Final Paycheck

  • Must pay all wages by next regular payday

Wage Payment

  • Regular pay schedules required
  • Cannot withhold earned wages

Filing Wage Claims

NC Department of Labor

Phone: 1-800-625-2267 Website: labor.nc.gov


Finding Legal Help

  • NC DOL: labor.nc.gov | 1-800-625-2267
  • WHD (Federal): dol.gov/agencies/whd

Related Resources


Legal Disclaimer

This guide provides general information about North Carolina wage and hour laws and is not legal advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is standard Rate?
$7.25/hour (federal minimum applies)
What is tipped Employees?
Cash wage: $2.13/hour With tips must equal $7.25
What is final Paycheck?
Must pay all wages by next regular payday
What is wage Payment?
Regular pay schedules required Cannot withhold earned wages
What is nC Department of Labor?
Phone: 1-800-625-2267 Website: labor.nc.gov

Legal Disclaimer

The information on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Employment laws vary by state and change frequently. For advice specific to your situation, consult a licensed employment attorney in your state. Employment Law Aid is not a law firm and does not provide legal representation. No attorney-client relationship is created by using this website.