| State | 2026 Tipped Wage | Regular Min. Wage | Max Tip Credit | Tip Credit Status | Notes |
|---|
Source: Compiled from U.S. DOL WHD and state labor agencies, October 2026.
- The tipped wage is the minimum cash wage an employer must pay directly. Tips must bring total hourly earnings up to at least the regular minimum wage; employers must cover any shortfall.
- Several states (Connecticut, New York, Oregon, Montana) have regional or industry-specific rates. The table shows the most broadly applicable rate; see the notes column for details.
- Florida's figures reflect the September 30, 2026 increase to $15.00 / $11.98.
- Cities and counties may set higher local minimums. Always confirm with the state labor agency before making payroll decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the federal tipped minimum wage in 2026?
The federal tipped minimum wage remains $2.13 per hour in 2026, with a maximum tip credit of $5.12 against the $7.25 federal minimum wage. Employers must make up any shortfall so tipped employees earn at least $7.25 per hour in total.
Which states do not allow a tip credit?
Seven states require employers to pay tipped employees the full state minimum wage before tips: Alaska, California, Minnesota, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington.
What is a tip credit?
A tip credit is the portion of the minimum wage that an employer may count from an employee's tips toward the minimum wage obligation. For example, in a state with a $15.00 minimum wage and a $3.00 tip credit, the employer pays at least $12.00 per hour directly, and the employee's tips must cover the rest. If tips fall short, the employer must pay the difference.
How is the tipped minimum wage calculated for a state?
It is the regular state minimum wage minus the maximum tip credit allowed by that state. Where no tip credit is permitted, the tipped minimum wage equals the full regular minimum wage.
Is this dataset free to download and use?
Yes. The on-page table is free, and the Download CSV button exports the full 51-jurisdiction dataset for use in spreadsheets, payroll reviews, or HR planning.
How current is this data?
The figures reflect 2026 rates as of October 2026, including mid-year changes such as Alaska's July 1, 2026 increase and Florida's September 30, 2026 increase. Always verify with the relevant state labor agency before relying on the numbers for payroll.
Need more than the free dataset?
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