Can my employer deduct from my wages?

Deductions are generally limited to those required by law (taxes, garnishments) or authorized in writing by the employee [§ 8-4-103]. Unauthorized deductions may violate state wage payment laws.

How do I file a wage claim?

You can file a complaint with the Colorado Civil Rights Division (CCRD), Department of Regulatory Agencies or the U.S. Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division. An attorney can help determine the best approach for your situation.

Topic guideUpdated 2026-02-27

Colorado Wage & Hour Claims — Minimum Wage, Overtime & Unpaid Wages

Minimum wage, overtime rules, wage payment requirements, and how to file a wage claim in Colorado.

Colorado has specific laws governing minimum wage, overtime, and the payment of wages §8-4-103.

Minimum Wage

Statewide minimum wage adjusted annually for inflation — the rate is set by Colo. Const. art. XVIII, sec. 15 and published each year in the PAY CALC Order, 7 CCR 1103-14, not by a C.R.S. section; tipped employees may be paid a reduced cash wage with a tip credit so long as tips bring total pay to the full minimum wage; higher local minimum wages and coverage exceptions may apply. Check the current year's PAY CALC Order from the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment or confirm with a lawyer for the exact rate..

Overtime

1.5x regular rate after 40 hours/week and for hours over 12 in a single workday; Colorado Overtime and Minimum Pay Standards Order (COMPS Order) governs covered industries §8-6-101.

Wage Payment Requirements

Employers must pay wages at least monthly, with no more than 30 days between paydays for most employees; wages due within 10 days after close of pay period §8-4-103.

Final Paycheck Rules

If fired, final wages due immediately; if employee quits with at least 3 days' notice, wages due on next regular payday; if employee quits without notice, wages due within 10 days or next payday, whichever comes first; vacation pay must be paid at separation if earned under employer policy §8-4-103.

Common Wage Violations

Failure to pay minimum wage

Unpaid overtime or misclassification of exempt/non-exempt status

Unauthorized deductions from wages

Failure to pay final wages on time

Misclassification of employees as independent contractors

Off-the-clock work requirements

How to File a Wage Claim

Gather documentation: pay stubs, time records, employment contract, and written communications about pay

File a complaint with the Colorado Civil Rights Division (CCRD), Department of Regulatory Agencies or the U.S. Department of Labor

Consider whether your claim falls under state law, the FLSA, or both

Consult with an employment attorney for complex claims or class actions

⚠The Statute of limitations for wage claims is typically 2 years under the FLSA (3 years for willful violations). State deadlines may differ.

✓Keep your own records of hours worked, especially if your employer does not provide accurate time records. Personal logs and calendars can be powerful evidence.

Prepare for Your Consultation

Quick checklist (Employment Law)

Gather these before your first consultation.

Employment records

(pay stubs, contracts, offer letters)

Communication evidence

(emails, texts, performance reviews)

Witness information

(coworkers who can corroborate)

General preparation tips only. Specific needs depend on your state and employment situation.

No Obligation

Ready to Talk to a Lawyer?

Submit a short intake form and a participating Colorado attorney who handles this type of matter may reach out to you. No commitment required.

Request a Free Consultation →

No attorney-client relationship is created unless you later sign an engagement agreement. Participating attorneys may pay a marketing fee to receive inquiries.

Common Questions