By state
Kentucky Minimum Wage & Labor Laws (2026)
In 2026, the Kentucky minimum wage is $7.25/hour. Overtime is 1.5× the regular rate over 40 hours a week. Below are the wage, overtime, final-paycheck and break rules, plus a calculator pre-set to Kentucky.
Kentucky wage & hour rate sheet
2026 rules, sourced to the U.S. DOL and the state labor department
$7.25/hr
minimum wage
- Overtime
- 1.5x the regular rate for hours over 40 in a workweek. Kentucky follows the federal FLSA weekly rule.
- Tipped pay
- $2.13/hr cash. Employers may take a tip credit; cash wage plus tips must reach $7.25/hr.
- Final paycheck
- Fired: Next payday or 14 days after the last day, whichever is later. Quit: Next payday or 14 days after the last day, whichever is later.
- Meal & rest breaks
- Meal: Reasonable meal period between the 3rd and 5th hour of a shift. Rest: 10-min paid rest per 4 hrs worked.
Kentucky pay & overtime calculator
Pre-set to Kentucky. Enter your rate and hours.
Your hours
Your pay this week
OT $30.00/hrGross pay
$950.00
before taxes and deductions
Regular40 hrs × $20.00$800.00
Overtime (1.50×)5 hrs × $30.00$150.00
Total gross$950.00
Kentucky follows the FLSA weekly rule: 1.5× the regular rate for hours over 40 in a workweek.
Kentucky figures are current for 2026 and compiled from the U.S. Department of Labor and Kentucky's labor department. Cities and counties may set higher local minimums, and industry rules vary, so confirm with your state labor department before relying on this for payroll or a legal decision.