KYKentucky pay rules
Minimum wage $7.25. Overtime after 40 hours in a week. If you are fired, your last check is due by the next regular payday or 14 days after the last day, whichever is later.
Kentucky minimum wage$7.25 now
Kentucky overtime lawsWeekly overtime after 40 hours
Kentucky final paycheck lawFired: next regular payday or 14 days after the last day, whichever is later
Kentucky PTO payout lawDepends on written policy
| Rule | Kentucky | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum wage | $7.25 an hour since July 24, 2009. No change planned. Statewide federal rate. | read the rulechecked October 29, 2026 |
| Cash pay if you get tips | At least $2.13 an hour. Tips may make up the rest, up to $5.12. | read the rulechecked October 29, 2026 |
| Overtime | 1.5x after 40 hours in a work week, and 1.5x for all hours on the seventh day when an employee works all seven days of the work week. No daily overtime. | KRS 337.285, 337.050checked October 29, 2026 |
| Last check if fired | Next regular payday or 14 days after the last day, whichever is later | KRS 337.055, 337.385checked October 29, 2026 |
| Last check if you quit | Next regular payday or 14 days after the last day, whichever is later | KRS 337.055, 337.385checked October 29, 2026 |
| If the last check is late | An extra penalty payment equal to the unpaid wages plus fees if you file a wage complaint. | KRS 337.055, 337.385checked 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 | Reasonable off-duty meal period, usually 30 minutes, between the 3rd and 5th hour of work. | read the rulechecked October 29, 2026 |
| Rest break | Paid 10-minute rest period in each 4-hour work period, in addition to the meal period. | 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.