Connecticut Minimum Wage — As of January 1, 2026, the minimum wage in Connecticut is $16.94 per hour, adjusted each year based on the federal Employment Cost Index. Tipped workers have special rates: $6.38 per hour for hotel and restaurant staff and $8.23 for bartenders — but tips must still bring total hourly pay up to $16.94, or the employer covers the gap.
Recordkeeping
Each employer is required to keep at the place of employment for a period of three years a true and accurate time and wage record for each employee. The records shall also show the following:
1. name.
2. home address.
3. occupation.
4. total daily and weekly hours worked showing the beginning and ending time of each work period, computed to the nearest unit of 15 minutes.
5. total hourly, daily, or weekly basic wage.
6. overtime wage as a separate item.
7. addition and deductions from wages each pay period.
8. total wages paid each pay period.
9. working certificates for 16-18 year old employees.
Frequency of Payment
Each employer shall pay weekly all moneys due each employee on a regular payday, designated in advance by the employer in cash or negotiable check or upon the employee’s written request, by credit to such employee’s bank account.
Last Paycheck
The employer shall pay an employee who voluntarily terminates or is laid off on the next regular payday. If an employee is discharged all wages are due the next business day.
Withholding of Wages
No employer may withhold or divert any portion of an employee’s wages unless required or empowered by state or federal law, the employer has written authorization from the employee on a form approved by the Labor Commissioner, or for a medical premium or retirement plan.
Recordkeeping
Each employer shall advise his employees in writing, at the time of hiring, the rate of remuneration hours of employment and wage payment schedules and make available to his employees either in writing or through a posted notice, any employment practices and policies or change therein with regard to wages, vacation pay, sick leave, health and welfare benefits and comparable matters.
Connecticut Overtime — Non-exempt employees earn 1.5 times their regular rate for hours over 40 in a week. Hotel and restaurant workers get an additional premium for the seventh consecutive day in a workweek. Because Connecticut rejects the federal “highly compensated employee” and computer-professional exemptions, more workers qualify for overtime than federal law alone would cover. Connecticut workers can file wage complaints with the state Department of Labor and may recover double damages plus attorney’s fees.
