Minimum wage, overtime rules, wage payment requirements, and how to file a wage claim in Tennessee.
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Tennessee has specific laws governing minimum wage, overtime, and the payment of wages §50-2-103.
Minimum Wage
No state minimum wage law; federal FLSA rate applies.
Overtime
No state overtime law; federal FLSA overtime rules apply.
Wage Payment Requirements
Employers must pay wages at least once per month on regular paydays §50-2-103.
Final Paycheck Rules
Final wages due on the next regular payday following termination, or within 21 days, whichever occurs later §50-2-103.
Common Wage Violations
1
Failure to pay minimum wage
2
Unpaid overtime or misclassification of exempt/non-exempt status
3
Unauthorized deductions from wages
4
Failure to pay final wages on time
5
Misclassification of employees as independent contractors
6
Off-the-clock work requirements
How to File a Wage Claim
1
Gather documentation: pay stubs, time records, employment contract, and written communications about pay
2
File a complaint with the Tennessee Attorney General's Civil Rights Enforcement Division (CRED) or the U.S. Department of Labor
3
Consider whether your claim falls under state law, the FLSA, or both
4
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
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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.
