Kentucky does not set a minimum wage above the federal level, so employers covered by the Fair Labor Standards Act must pay the federal minimum of $7.25 per hour. Kentucky matches the federal minimum wage of $7.25.
Wage rates for 2026
Overtime & premium pay
| Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Weekly | 40 hours (1.5x) |
| 7th day | 7th consecutive day (1.5x) |
Kentucky's separate 7th-day law requires time and one-half for hours worked on the 7th day when an employee works all 7 days in a week (and works over 40 hours).
Related labor laws in Kentucky
Paid sick leave
Not required by state law.
Overtime
Overtime is required after 40 hours (1.5x) in a week, and on the 7th consecutive day (1.5x). Kentucky's separate 7th-day law requires time and one-half for hours worked on the 7th day when an employee works all 7 days in a week (and works over 40 hours).
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 Kentucky Labor Cabinet.