The District of Columbia minimum wage for 2026 is $18.40 per hour. Increased to $18.40 on July 1, 2026, and adjusted each July 1.
The tipped cash wage rose to $10.30 on July 1, 2026 and keeps rising under Initiative 82. A 2025 amendment caps the tip credit at 75% of the minimum wage.
Wage rates for 2026
Overtime & premium pay
| Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Weekly | 40 hours (1.5x) |
The minimum wage is adjusted each July 1 based on inflation.
Related labor laws in District of Columbia
Paid sick leave
Required. DC's Accrued Sick and Safe Leave Act requires paid leave.
Overtime
Overtime is required after 40 hours (1.5x) in a week. The minimum wage is adjusted each July 1 based on inflation.
Pay frequency & final paycheck
Rules for how often employees must be paid and when a final paycheck is due vary. Confirm the current requirements with the DC Department of Employment Services.
Meal & rest breaks
Whether a meal break or paid rest break is required, and whether that time is paid, follows District of Columbia and federal rules.
Time off to vote
Whether employees get time off to vote, and whether it is paid, is set by state election law.
Jury duty
Your job is protected during jury service. Whether the employer must pay you depends on the state.
Bereavement leave
Only six states require bereavement or funeral leave. Many employers offer it voluntarily.
As of 2026, no city or county in District of Columbia sets a minimum wage above the state rate, so the statewide $18.40 applies everywhere.