Quick Answer
Complete guide to Virginia minimum wage laws. Learn about the $12.41/hour rate, tipped employees, and how to recover unpaid wages.
Quick Answer: Virginia's minimum wage is $12.41/hour in 2026—significantly higher than federal $7.25. Tipped workers must receive at least $2.13/hour in cash wages, with tips bringing total to $12.41. Virginia has increased minimum wage through recent legislation.
Virginia provides better wage protections than federal law.
Virginia Minimum Wage Rates
2026 Rate
Standard minimum wage: $12.41/hour
Tipped employees: $2.13/hour (plus tips to reach $12.41)
Recent Increases
History:
- 2024: $12.00
- 2023: $12.00
- Prior increases from legislation
Who's Covered
Most employees:
- Private sector workers
- Part-time employees
- Some exemptions apply
Tipped Employees
Tip Credit System
How it works:
- Pay $2.13/hour cash wage
- Tips must bring total to $12.41
- Employer makes up shortfall
Requirements
Employer must:
- Inform of tip credit
- Employee keeps all tips
- Ensure total reaches minimum
Recovering Unpaid Wages
Virginia Department of Labor
File complaint:
- Phone: 804-371-3104
- Wage claims
- Minimum wage violations
Federal DOL
Also available:
- Phone: 1-866-487-9243
- FLSA violations
Find Out If You Have a Case
Not sure if your employer broke the law or what your claim is worth? Get a free, no-obligation evaluation from an experienced employment attorney.
Common Scenarios
Scenario 1: Paid Below Minimum
Situation: Employer paying $10/hour.
Analysis: Violation. Virginia minimum is $12.41.
Scenario 2: Tipped Below Minimum
Situation: Tips don't bring total to $12.41.
Analysis: Employer must make up difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Virginia's minimum wage?
$12.41/hour in 2026.
Is it higher than federal?
Yes. Virginia's is nearly double federal $7.25.
What about tipped workers?
$2.13/hour plus tips to reach $12.41.
How do I report violations?
Contact Virginia Department of Labor at 804-371-3104.
Related Topics
Take Action
If not receiving minimum wage:
- Calculate wages owed
- Gather pay stubs
- Document hours worked
- Contact Virginia DOLI
- Consider consulting attorney
Legal Disclaimer
This article provides general information about Virginia minimum wage and is not legal advice. For specific advice, consult a licensed Virginia employment attorney.
For official information:
- Virginia DOLI: https://www.doli.virginia.gov | 804-371-3104
Keep Reading
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Guide to Virginia final paycheck requirements including timing and remedies for violations.
Read moreVirginia Overtime Laws
Guide to Virginia overtime requirements including the new Virginia Overtime Wage Act and FLSA rules.
Read moreVirginia Unpaid Wages
Guide to recovering unpaid wages in Virginia including the Virginia Wage Payment Act and complaint process.
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