In Ontario, 2024 brings forth a series of updates and considerations for individuals and employers. Below, we outline what you need to know in relation to employment compensation in Ontario.
Ontario’s Current Minimum Wage
As of January 1, 2024, the minimum wage in Ontario is $16.55 per hour, representing a 6.8% increase from the previous rate of $15.50 per hour set on October 1, 2022.
The standard minimum wage in Ontario is applicable to employees regulated by the province, whether they work full-time, part-time, or on an hourly basis.
| Minimum Wage | Rate |
| General | $16.55 per hour |
| Liquor Servers | $16.55 per hour |
Special Minimum Wage in Ontario
| Student | $15.60 per hour |
| Hunting, fishing and
wilderness guides |
$82.85 (for working less than five consecutive hours in a day)
or $165.75 (for working five or more hours in a day, whether or not the hours are consecutive) |
| Homeworkers | $18.20 per hour |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Minimum Wage
The minimum wage is the lowest amount of money that employers are legally required to pay their employees for an hour of work. It serves as a basic standard to ensure that workers receive fair and reasonable compensation for their labour. Minimum wage laws are established by governments and can vary from one region or country to another. The goal is to set a baseline income that helps workers cover their essential living expenses. Employers are obligated to pay at least the minimum wage, and failure to do so can lead to legal consequences.
Are there minimum wage exemptions?
Yes. Federal employees in Ontario are exempt from provincial minimum wage regulations. These sectors include banking, telecommunication companies, as well as interprovincial air, marine, rail, and road transportation.
These employees are subject to federal labour standards, and the minimum wage for federally regulated employees is determined by the Canada Labour Code. The federal minimum wage is currently $16.65 per hour, with the most recent revision made on April 1, 2023.
Can Hospitality Servers Be Paid Less Than Minimum Wage in Ontario?
The standard minimum wage in Ontario is $16.55 per hour. This also includes bartenders and alcohol servers who, until January 1, 2022, received a distinct, lower wage.
Can you pay someone less than minimum wage in Ontario?
In Ontario, employers are required to pay employees at least the minimum wage set by the government. This applies to provincially regulated employees working full-time, part-time, or hourly in Ontario.
How many hours is full time in Ontario?
If you are an employee or student intern, your regular working hours consist of 8 hours within a day (any continuous 24-hour period) and 40 hours within a week (i.e., seven continuous days).
Do salaried employees get minimum wage?
In short, yes. Salaried employees in Ontario are required to receive at least the minimum wage. If the salary falls below the minimum wage, employers are obligated to provide additional compensation to ensure compliance.
How often does the minimum wage increase?
Based on the rate of inflation, minimum wage increase is subject to once per year. On October 1, 2024, is the next hourly minimum increase. The amount will be disclosed approximately April 2024.
Get In Touch
If you have inquiries or concerns in relation to your employment compensation, contact Toronto employment lawyers, Sultan Lawyers, online or by telephone at (416) 214-5111.