As 2025 approaches, employers in New Jersey and New York must take action to meet their year-end human resources compliance obligations and prepare for upcoming changes, including 2025 minimum wage increases and updates to required notices. Staying compliant not only ensures smoother operations but also protects your business from potential penalties and expensive lawsuits.
2025 Minimum Wage Increases
NJ 2025 Minimum Wage Updates
Effective January 1, 2025, the New Jersey minimum wage will increase as follows:
- $15.49 per hour for most employers.
- $14.53 per hour for seasonal employers and those with fewer than six employees.
- $5.62 per hour with a tip credit of $9.87 for tipped employees.
- $13.40 per hour for agricultural workers.
- $18.49 per hour for long-term facility staff.
NY 2025 Minimum Wage Updates
In New York, minimum wage rates will also rise on January 1, 2025:
- New York City, Long Island, and Westchester County:
- $16.50 per hour for most employers.
- $19.10 per hour for home health aides.
- $11.00 per hour with a tip credit of $5.50 for tipped employees.
- The remainder of the State:
- $15.50 per hour for most employers.
- $18.10 per hour for home health aides.
- $10.35 per hour with a tip credit of $5.15 for tipped employees.
The New York Department of Labor has a Minimum Wage Calculator that can be used to determine tip credit by industry.
Salary Basis Requirement Updates:
The salary thresholds for overtime exemptions in New York will also increase:
- $1,237.50 per week in New York City, Long Island, and Westchester County.
- $1,161.65 per week for the rest of New York State.
NJ Employer Notices: Key Year-End Requirements
Annual Gender Equity Notices
Businesses with 50 or more employees in New Jersey must distribute Gender Equity Notices to all employees by December 31, 2024. Ensure each employee acknowledges receipt. A sample notice is available here.
CEPA Whistleblower Law Notices
New Jersey employers with ten or more employees must issue annual notices under the Conscientious Employee Protection Act (CEPA) by year-end. These notices can be found here.
Compliance Matters
Failure to meet these requirements could result in fines or legal liabilities. Stay proactive and avoid unnecessary risks by addressing these obligations promptly.
Take Action Now
Complying with changes to the NJ 2025 minimum wage, NY 2025 minimum wage, and NJ employer notices is essential for protecting your business. If you’re unsure whether your company is fully compliant, we’re here to help.
Schedule a complimentary consultation through our online scheduling system to ensure your business is ready for the new year.
Information contained in this blog is provided for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice or opinion. You should consult with an attorney regarding the specifics of your matter or legal issue.
The post It’s Time for Employers to Comply with Year-End Obligations and Prepare for 2025 Minimum Wage Increases first appeared on Morea Law LLC.