If the minimum wage rate changes mid-pay period or mid-workweek, do we pay the new higher rate for the entire pay period or workweek?

When the minimum wage rate changes, the new rate must be paid beginning on the effective date of the change. For example, when the minimum wage increases on January 1, employers pay the new minimum wage for all hours worked from January 1 going forward.

Even if the effective date of the minimum wage rate falls in the middle of a workweek or pay period, it only applies on the effective date. For example, if January 1, 2026, fell in the middle of your pay period, employees would be paid at the 2025 minimum wage rate for all hours worked through December 31, 2025, and then paid at the 2026 rate for all hours worked beginning on January 1, 2026.