Kentucky ( KY ) Wage and Hour Laws

Kentucky (KY) wage and hour laws exist to help those who work in Kentucky know their rights and responsibilities. In addition, these laws also help settle conflicts which could arise between employers and employees.

One issue addressed by Kentucky (KY) wage and hour laws is that of the minimum wage of Kentucky. The minimum hour rate paid to Kentucky employees is currently set at the federal standard of $5.15 per hour. However, this state’s minimum wage could increase at any time and it is wise for employers to stay informed in case it does.

In most cases any time worked over 40 hours per week in Kentucky is considered overtime, and is paid at 1 ½ times an employee’s regular hourly wage. Some employers also pay workers higher rates on Sundays or holidays, which is not required. Employees usually will be told by their employer what their individual policy is regarding overtime pay on weekend days or holidays.

An additional requirement presented in Kentucky (KY) wage and hour laws is that overtime must be paid to employees who have worked more than six days in a row. This particular requirement applies if that employee has already worked at least 40 hours within that same week. This provision does not apply to workers who have worked less than 40 hours within a regular work week.

Both Kentucky employers and workers may need to understand the exceptions to rules regarding minimum wage as well. For instance, certain employees, such as salespeople, tipped employees, or those who work as domestic helpers are exempt from the standard minimum age provision.

Employers are required to inform their employees about Kentucky (KY) wage and hour laws. Information regarding these is usually displayed on the premises of an employer or within an employee handbook. This information is available online as well.