Alaska Statewide Rule
Alaska Minimum Wage Allows Higher Local Wage Standards
Key Facts
- Minimum Wage
- AS 23.10.065 sets statewide minimum wage
- Annual CPI adjustments
- Annual CPI adjustments apply each January
- Tip Credit
- No tip credit allowed in Alaska
- Preemption
- Higher local wages not preempted
- Voter initiatives expanded
- Voter initiatives expanded wage protections
Summary
Alaska sets a statewide minimum wage under AS 23.10.065 that adjusts annually for inflation, and the state does not preempt local governments from adopting higher minimum wage requirements.
(a) Except as otherwise provided for in law, an employer shall pay to each employee a minimum wage, as established herein, for hours worked in a pay period, whether the work is measured by time, piece, commission or otherwise. An employer may not apply tips or gratuities bestowed upon employees as a credit toward payment of the minimum hourly wage required by this section.
Full Breakdown
AS 23.10.065 sets Alaska's minimum wage, which is adjusted each January by CPI. The Alaska Wage and Hour Act in AS 23.10 establishes overtime and other wage requirements that act as a floor; local governments retain authority to adopt higher standards. Tip credits are not allowed in Alaska. Employers must post the current minimum wage, keep payroll records, and pay at least biweekly under AS 23.05.140. Voter-approved increases in 2014 and 2024 expanded protections beyond the federal floor.
Violations & Penalties
Wage violations can result in back wages, liquidated damages, and civil penalties under AS 23.10.110 and 23.10.135.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Alaska cities set a higher minimum wage?
Is the tip credit allowed?
Sources
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