Tennessee 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. Tennessee has no state minimum wage law, so the federal rate applies.
Wage rates for 2026
Basic minimum wage
$7.25 per hour
Tip credit
Yes Allowed
Tipped cash wage
$2.13 per hour
Youth / training wage
Federal youth wage of $4.25/hour applies to workers under 20 for their first 90 days.
Overtime & premium pay
| Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Weekly | 40 hours (1.5x) |
Tennessee has no state minimum wage law and follows the federal $7.25 under the FLSA.
Related labor laws in Tennessee
Paid sick leave
Not required by state law.
Overtime
Overtime is required after 40 hours (1.5x) in a week. Tennessee has no state minimum wage law and follows the federal $7.25 under the FLSA.
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 Tennessee Department of Labor.