North Carolina Minimum Wage Increases: Everything You Need to Know

North Carolina Minimum Wage Increases: Everything You Need to Know
We know that small business owners in the Tar Heel state are eager to stay on top of minimum wage increases so we’ve put together this quick guide with all the info you need to know.
by Square Nov 13, 2023 — 2 min read
North Carolina Minimum Wage Increases: Everything You Need to Know

We know that small business owners in the Tar Heel state are eager to stay on top of minimum wage increases so we’ve put together this quick guide with all the info you need to know.

What is the 2024 minimum wage in North Carolina?

The minimum wage in North Carolina matches that of the federal minimum wage rate at $7.25 per hour for non-tipped employees. Exceptions to this minimum wage rate include:

Keep in mind that counties, cities, and towns may have their own minimum wage laws. Be sure to check what local wage laws may apply to you.

Learn how to formalize and grow your business. Check out the Employer Launchpad.

Are there plans to change the minimum wage in North Carolina?

North Carolina last raised its state minimum wage in 2008, when it increased $0.70, from $6.55 to $7.25 per hour. Charlotte’s minimum wage is also still at $7.25 an hour, though some large companies and government jobs in the city pay employees more.

The coalition Raising Wages NC is pushing for an increase to $15 per hour over the course of five years.

What’s happening beyond 2024?

The minimum wage in North Carolina will remain at the federal level for the foreseeable future due to a lack of bipartisan legislative support for a statewide minimum wage increase.

How should small business owners prepare for possible changes to the minimum wage?

Even if changes to the minimum wage aren’t on the horizon, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t prepare in case they ever are. Every business is different, so there isn’t one right way to do this. Here are a few options you may want to consider:

As always, to make sure your business is prepared and stays in compliance (such as getting an EIN) with applicable wage laws, you should discuss North Carolina’s minimum wage laws with your trusted accountant and lawyer.

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