RIRhode Island pay rules
Minimum wage $16.00, going up to $17.00 on January 1, 2027. Overtime after 40 hours in a week. If you are fired, your last check is due by the next regular payday.
Rhode Island minimum wage$16.00 now, $17.00 from January 1, 2027
Rhode Island overtime lawsWeekly overtime after 40 hours
Rhode Island final paycheck lawFired: next regular payday
Rhode Island PTO payout lawPayout required by law
| Rule | Rhode Island | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum wage | $16.00 an hour since January 1, 2026. Going up to $17.00 on January 1, 2027. Statewide. Retail and some other businesses must pay 1.5x for Sunday and holiday work. | read the rulechecked October 29, 2026 |
| Cash pay if you get tips | At least $3.89 an hour. Tips may make up the rest, up to $12.11. | read the rulechecked October 29, 2026 |
| Overtime | 1.5x after 40 hours in a work week. Sunday and holiday work in retail is also paid at 1.5x. No daily overtime. | R.I. Gen. Laws 28-12-4.1checked October 29, 2026 |
| Last check if fired | Next regular payday, including your unused vacation | R.I. Gen. Laws 28-14-4, 28-14-19.2checked October 29, 2026 |
| Last check if you quit | Next regular payday | R.I. Gen. Laws 28-14-4, 28-14-19.2checked October 29, 2026 |
| If the last check is late | Up to twice the unpaid amount plus fees if you file a wage complaint. | R.I. Gen. Laws 28-14-4, 28-14-19.2checked October 29, 2026 |
| Unused vacation when you leave | Must be paid out. Employees with at least one year of service must be paid all earned vacation when you leave the job. | R.I. Gen. Laws 28-14-4(b)checked October 29, 2026 |
| Meal break | 20-minute meal period in a 6-hour shift. 30 minutes in an 8-hour shift. | read the rulechecked October 29, 2026 |
| Rest break | No state 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.