DCDistrict of Columbia pay rules
Minimum wage $18.40. Overtime after 40 hours in a week. If you are fired, your last check is due by the next business day if fired.
District of Columbia minimum wage$18.40 now
District of Columbia overtime lawsWeekly overtime after 40 hours
District of Columbia final paycheck lawFired: next business day if fired
District of Columbia PTO payout lawDepends on written policy
| Rule | District of Columbia | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum wage | $18.40 an hour since July 1, 2026. Inflation-indexed each July 1. The 2027 rate is announced in the spring. District-wide. | read the rulechecked October 29, 2026 |
| Cash pay if you get tips | At least $10.30 an hour. Tips may make up the rest, up to $8.10. Initiative 82 phase-out of the tip credit was paused by the Council in 2025. The cash wage is $10.30 until further action. | read the rulechecked October 29, 2026 |
| Overtime | 1.5x after 40 hours in a work week. No daily overtime. | D.C. Code 32-1003(c)checked October 29, 2026 |
| Last check if fired | Next business day if fired. Next regular payday if laid off | D.C. Code 32-1303checked October 29, 2026 |
| Last check if you quit | Next regular payday or within 7 days, whichever is earlier | D.C. Code 32-1303checked October 29, 2026 |
| If the last check is late | An extra penalty payment of 10% of unpaid wages per day, up to 4x the wages owed. | D.C. Code 32-1303checked October 29, 2026 |
| Unused vacation when you leave | Depends on your employer's written policy. The employer's written policy or contract governs payout of unused vacation. | read the rulechecked October 29, 2026 |
| Meal break | No meal period requirement for adults. | read the rulechecked October 29, 2026 |
| Rest break | No rest period requirement. | read the rulechecked October 29, 2026 |
These rules cover the whole state. Cities and industries with their own rules are noted in the table. Checked October 29, 2026. Next check: January 1, 2027.