Minnesota's minimum wage in 2026 is $11.41 per hour. The tipped minimum wage is also $11.41 per hour. Minnesota's minimum wage is $11.41/hr for all employers. No tip credit is allowed. Tipped employees must receive the full minimum wage.
2027 update: Minnesota's minimum wage rises to $11.87 on January 1, 2027. See our 2027 minimum wage guide.
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Minnesota has set its minimum wage above the federal floor of $7.25/hr. As an employer, you must pay at least the applicable minimum wage to all non-exempt employees. Getting this wrong can result in back pay claims, penalties, and lawsuits.
Current Minnesota Minimum Wage: $11.41/hr
| Standard Minimum Wage | $11.41/hr |
| Tipped Minimum Wage | $11.41/hr |
| Federal Minimum Wage | $7.25/hr |
When both federal and state minimum wages apply, employers must pay the higher of the two. In Minnesota, the state rate of $11.41/hr applies.
Tipped Employee Minimum Wage: $11.41/hr
No employer may take a tip credit against minimum wages in Minnesota. Tipped employees must be paid at least $11.41/hr, plus any tips they earn.
Federal vs. State Minimum Wage
The federal minimum wage has been $7.25/hr since 2009. Minnesota has set a higher rate, so the state rate applies to all employers in Minnesota.
Local Minimum Wage Exceptions
Minnesota's minimum wage is $11.41/hr for all employers. No tip credit is allowed. Tipped employees must receive the full minimum wage.
Overtime and Minimum Wage
Under the FLSA, non-exempt employees who work more than 40 hours in a workweek must be paid at least 1.5x their regular rate. The overtime rate is based on the actual rate paid (which must be at least the minimum wage), not a fixed multiplier of the minimum.
For more on overtime rules, see our Overtime Pay Rules guide.
Employer Compliance
- Pay at least $11.41/hr to all non-exempt employees
- Track tipped employee earnings and make up tip credit shortfalls
- Display the required minimum wage poster in a visible workplace location
- Keep accurate payroll records for at least 3 years (federal requirement)
- Monitor for local minimum wage ordinances in your municipality
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Minnesota minimum wage in 2026?
The Minnesota minimum wage in 2026 is $11.41 per hour. Minnesota's minimum wage is $11.41/hr for all employers. No tip credit is allowed. Tipped employees must receive the full minimum wage.
What is the tipped minimum wage in Minnesota?
The tipped minimum wage in Minnesota is $11.41 per hour. Minnesota does not allow a tip credit, so tipped employees must be paid the full minimum wage plus any tips they earn.
Does Minnesota follow the federal minimum wage?
No, Minnesota has set its own minimum wage at $11.41/hr, which is above the federal minimum of $7.25/hr.
What are the penalties for violating Minnesota minimum wage laws?
Employers who fail to pay the minimum wage in Minnesota may face back pay obligations, penalties, fines, and potential lawsuits from affected employees. The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry enforces minimum wage compliance.
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Legal & Tax Disclaimer
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or professional advice. Employment laws, tax regulations, and compliance requirements change frequently. The information on this page reflects our understanding as of February 2026 and may not reflect recent changes in federal or Minnesota state law.
Do not act or refrain from acting based solely on the information in this article. Always consult a qualified attorney, CPA, or HR professional familiar with Minnesota law before making payroll or compliance decisions for your business.