How Much Is Minimum Wage in Maryland?

Maryland promotes its own minimum wage.

A minimum wage ensures that workers make enough to maintain a minimum standard of living. States must follow the federal minimum wage unless they create their own standards with afford a higher income, as Maryland has done.

Basics

According to the Maryland Department of Labor, from July 24, 2009, the state minimum wage is $7.25 per hour. However, with certain exceptions, those working for more than 40 hours a week are entitled to time and a half the usual rate for the excess hours.

Exemptions

Exemptions from this rule include certain agricultural workers, professional employees, restaurant workers, movie theater employees, commission salespeople, and those who are the immediate family of the employer.

Exempt Wages

Employees receiving more than $30 in tips per month are paid a minimum of $3.63 per hour, as long as they earn enough tips to bring average hourly wage to the state minimum. If an employee makes less than that average, employers must compensate with additional wages.

References

• Maryland Department of Labor: Wage and Hour Fact Sheet