Rhode Island Minimum Wage Laws

Rhode Island has passed legislation to steadily increase its minimum wage, reaching $15.00 per hour on January 1, 2025.

Rights & Rules

01.
As of January 1, 2025, the minimum wage for most workers in Rhode Island is $15.00 per hour.
02.
Full-time students under 19 working in non-profit organizations or at their school can be paid 90% of the minimum wage.
03.
Tipped employees (like waitstaff) have a lower 'cash minimum wage' ($3.89/hr), BUT if their tips plus the cash wage do not equal the standard minimum wage ($15.00) for the hours worked, the employer MUST make up the difference.

01.
Employers who fail to pay the minimum wage can be sued for the unpaid wages, plus an equal amount in liquidated damages, and attorney's fees.

"Every employer shall pay to each of his or her employees: commencing January 1, 2025, at least fifteen dollars ($15.00) per hour."