Updated: March 6, 2024
CT Minimum Wage Breakdown
On January 1, 2024, the Connecticut Minimum wage was increased to $15.69 per hour. This represents a 4.6% increase over the 2023 CT minimum wage of $15.00 per hour. Connecticut will continue to have one of the higher minimum wages in the country.
- Restaurant and Hotel Workers – Remain unchanged at $6.38
- Bartenders - Remains unchanged at $8.23
Mark Your Calendar
Don't let the recent minimum wage increase catch you off guard. In the realm of payroll, even small mistakes can lead to significant and costly issues. However, with the assistance of a third-party payroll service, you can rest assured that this change will be seamlessly taken care of.
CT Minimum Wage 2024: Consistent Increases
Connecticut's path to raising the minimum wage to $15 began in 2019 when Governor Ned Lamont signed the minimum wage increase in May of that year. The first step involved increasing the state's minimum wage from $10.10 to $11 in October 2019. Since then, Connecticut has pursued a consistent approach, with the minimum wage rising by $1 every 11 months, ultimately reaching the rate of $15.69 per hour on January 1, 2024.
Indexing for a Sustainable Future
From this point forward, the state’s minimum wage will be indexed by the U.S. Department of Labor’s employment cost index. Senator Cathy Osten explains, “It will automatically adjust moving forward without the need for a political debate.” This proactive measure is expected to maintain the value of the minimum wage over time, promoting stability and predictability for workers and businesses alike.
Implications for CT Businesses and the Worker Shortage
Connecticut's labor market continues to face a shortage of workers, prompting many businesses to offer wages above the minimum requirements. This response reflects a recognition of the need to remain competitive and foster employee satisfaction in a rapidly changing job market.
Conclusion
Connecticut's steadfast commitment to increasing the minimum wage signifies its determination to create a fair and equitable economic landscape for workers. The state's calibrated approach, marked by incremental increases, sets a progressive example. While businesses navigate the challenges posed by continued wage increases, many have taken proactive measures by voluntarily surpassing minimum wage requirements, stating their dedication to employee welfare and remaining competitive.
While businesses face the task of adjusting payroll, partnering with a professional payroll service company can mitigate costly mistakes and ensure compliance.
Check out our other articles to learn more about other 2024 payroll updates for CT employers such as FUTA, SUTA updates, MyCTSavings CT retirement program, and more.
