Minnesota Wage and Hour FAQs

Minnesota Overtime, Wage and Hour Questions

Back to Minnesota Overtime Law

Can I be required to wait around the workplace until it gets busy without being compensated for this time?

No. Employees must be paid for all hours worked, including time spent waiting for work.

When am I entitled to overtime?

Minnesota overtime law states that overtime must be paid at a rate of 1.5 times the worker’s regular rate for hours worked over 48 in a seven-day workweek. However, some Minnesota employers may be subject to federal overtime law (Fair Labor Standards Act), which requires overtime pay for hours worked over 40 in a single workweek. An employee cannot waive their right to overtime by entering an agreement with the employer that states they will be paid straight time for overtime hours.

Can my employer make deductions in my paycheck for cash shortages or breakages?

Minnesota employers cannot make deductions for broken items, cash shortages, uniforms or tools. Certain exceptions exist.

If a worker quits or is fired or laid off, when should they be paid their last paycheck?

Paychecks should be issued within 24 hours of the employee’s demand for wages. Employees who quit their jobs must be paid by the next regularly scheduled payday which is more than five days following the date of employee-employer separation. If the separating employee was entrusted with the employer’s money or property, the company receives 10 additional days to pay the employee. This additional time period is provided to allow the employer the opportunity to audit the employee’s accounts.

How many hours must I work to be considered a full-time employee?

Minnesota wage and hour law does not establish definitions for “full-time” and “part-time” employees.

Can I be fired for refusing to work overtime?

Employers have the ability to establish the amount of hours employees must work. Minnesota wage and hour law does not set a maximum amount of hours an employee can work. Employees who refuse to work overtime or their scheduled hours can be fired. Employers are not required to receive advance notice of a change in hours.

Am I entitled to a rest break?

Minnesota wage and hour law requires employers to provide bathroom breaks and sufficient meal periods. If a break lasts less than 20 minutes, the employee should be compensated. Restroom breaks must be provided within each four consecutive hours of work. Meal periods apply to those working 8 hours or more.