Virginia Minimum Wage Statewide Standard Under Code 40.1-28.10

Code § 40.1-28.10 sets Virginia's minimum wage. The rate is $12.77 per hour effective January 1, 2026, increasing to $13.75 on January 1, 2027 and $15.00 on January 1, 2028; beginning January 1, 2029 the Commissioner sets an annual inflation-adjusted rate. Tipped employees follow the federal tip-credit framework. The statute occupies the field, preempting local governments from setting a different minimum wage for private employers, though localities may pay their own employees and contractors more.

Employers paying below the state minimum owe unpaid wages plus 8% interest, and may owe triple the unpaid wages and reasonable attorney fees under Code § 40.1-29. Willful violations may be prosecuted as misdemeanors.