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 [§ 181.101]. Unauthorized deductions may violate state wage payment laws.

How do I file a wage claim?

You can file a complaint with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights (MDHR) 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

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

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

Minnesota has specific laws governing minimum wage, overtime, and the payment of wages §181.101.

Minimum Wage

One statewide rate for employers of all sizes — currently $11.41/hr as of January 1, 2026, adjusted annually for inflation by the commissioner (the 2024 amendment eliminated the former large/small-employer $500,000 gross-revenue tiers); a 90-day training wage of currently $9.31/hr may be paid to workers under age 20; no employer may take a tip credit against the minimum wage; Minneapolis and St. Paul ordinances may require a higher rate §177.24.

Overtime

Minnesota state overtime law requires 1.5x regular rate for hours over 48 in a workweek; state FLSA applies to all employers regardless of size §177.25.

Wage Payment Requirements

Employers must pay wages at least every 31 days on regular paydays; must provide itemized earnings statements §181.101.

Final Paycheck Rules

If fired, final wages due within 24 hours of demand; if employee quits with notice, due on last day of work; without notice, due on the next regular payday not less than 5 days after last day of work §181.101.

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 Minnesota Department of Human Rights (MDHR) 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.

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Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

General answers to common questions. Specific outcomes depend on your facts and timing.

If you have a deadline, court notice, or upcoming hearing, mention it when requesting assistance so timing can be evaluated promptly.

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Legal authoritiesStatutes referenced on this page

Minn. Stat. § 177.24

Minimum Wage

One statewide rate for employers of all sizes — currently $11.41/hr as of January 1, 2026, adjusted annually for inflation by the commissioner (the 2024 amendment eliminated the former large/small-employer $500,000 gross-revenue tiers); a 90-day training wage of currently $9.31/hr may be paid to workers under age 20; no employer may take a tip credit against the minimum wage; Minneapolis and St. Paul ordinances may require a higher rate

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Verified 2026-09-22 · quarterly review

Minn. Stat. § 177.25

Overtime Rules

Minnesota state overtime law requires 1.5x regular rate for hours over 48 in a workweek; state FLSA applies to all employers regardless of size.

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Verified 2026-07-29 · quarterly review

Minn. Stat. § 181.101

Wage Payment / Final Paycheck

Employers must pay wages at least every 31 days on regular paydays; must provide itemized earnings statements. If fired, final wages due within 24 hours of demand; if employee quits with notice, due on last day of work; without notice, due on the next regular payday not less than 5 days after last day of work.

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Citations link to official or authoritative sources. Laws change — verify current text before relying on any statute. How we verify citations →