In New Jersey, the minimum wage is $7.25 per hour. You have the right to be paid at least the minimum wage for every hour you work. The right to be paid minimum wage applies if you are working on a piece rate or day rate.

You also have the right to receive compensation for all hours worked. This includes hours worked “off the books” and hours typically paid in cash.

If your employer promises to pay you more than minimum wage, you must be paid that higher amount. In most situations, for hours over 40, workers should also get overtime pay, which is one and a half times the regular pay rate.

Undocumented immigrants must be paid minimum wage and must receive pay for work performed.

This information last reviewed 7/24/09.