A tipped employee engages in an occupation in which he or she customarily and regularly receives more than $30 per month in tips. An employer of a tipped employee is only required to pay $2.13 per hour in direct wages if that amount combined with the tips received at least equals the federal minimum wage. If the employee's tips combined with the employer's direct wages of at least $2.13 per hour do not equal the federal minimum hourly wage, the employer must make up the difference. Many states, however, require higher direct wage amounts for tipped employees.

Webpages on this Topic

News Release: U.S. Department of Labor Proposal Gives Freedom to Share Tips Between Traditionally Tipped and Non-Tipped Workers

Compliance Assistance: Tips

Tipped Employees Fact Sheet

Provides general information concerning the application of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) to employees who receive tips.

Definition of Tipped Employee

Any employee working in an occupation in which he or she regularly receives more than $30 a month in tips is considered a tipped employee.

Minimum Hourly Cash Wages for Tipped Employees Under Minimum Wage Laws

A listing of wage and tip amounts required to be paid to tipped employees as determined by state law.

Minimum Wage Laws in the States

Click on any state or jurisdiction to find out about applicable minimum wage laws.