## Tennessee Minimum Wage
Tennessee has no state minimum wage law. As of 2026, workers covered by the federal Fair Labor Standards Act must be paid at least the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. Tipped employees may receive a cash wage of $2.13 per hour as long as tips bring total pay to at least $7.25 — the employer must make up any shortfall. No increase is scheduled for 2027.
Last Paycheck
Tennessee employees who are laid off, fired, or who quit must be paid their wages in full at the next regular payday, not to exceed 21 days from the date of their discharge or termination.
Rest and Meal Breaks
State law requires that each employee scheduled to work six (6) consecutive hours must have a thirty (30) minute meal or rest period, except in workplace environments that by their nature of business provides for ample opportunity to rest or take an appropriate break. The failure to give a (30) minute meal or rest period is a violation of State law only.
Frequency of Payment
All wages or compensation of employees in private employment is due and payable at least semi-monthly and notice of regular paydays must be posted by each employer in at least two conspicuous places.
