Alabama Payroll Laws (2024 Guide For Employers)

Alabama payroll laws are easy to understand with access to the right information.

This guide will break down the following questions about Alabama payroll laws and offer a range of useful insights:

  • What is the Alabama minimum wage?
  • How does sick leave work in Alabama?
  • What are the overtime pay regulations in Alabama?
  • Do you have to take unpaid leave for jury duty in Alabama?
  • How do pay periods work in Alabama?
  • What protections do employees have in Alabama?

Let’s dive into answering the above questions.

Disclaimer: Despite our best efforts to provide you with accurate information on this topic at the time of writing, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the content at the time of reading. This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific guidance on Alabama payroll laws.

Minimum Wage in Alabama

Alabama does not have a state minimum wage law.

Instead, it follows the federal minimum wage under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour. This rate is subject to change, so it is essential to stay informed about any changes to the federal minimum wage.

Alabama Overtime Laws

Under the FLSA, Alabama employers must pay eligible employees overtime pay for any hours worked over 40 hours in a single workweek.

Overtime pay is calculated at one and a half times the employee’s regular rate of pay.

Some exemptions may apply, so it’s important to understand the specific eligibility requirements for overtime pay in Alabama.

Alabama Child Labor Laws

Alabama child labor laws set specific rules and restrictions for employees under the age of 18.

Employees who are 14 or 15 years old may work up to 3 hours on school days and 8 hours on non-school days, with a maximum of 18 hours per school week and 40 hours during non-school weeks.

Employees who are 16 or 17 years old do not have restrictions on the number of hours they may work, but they must provide proof of age to their employer.

Meal Breaks & Rest Breaks in Alabama

Alabama labor laws do not require employers to provide meal breaks or rest breaks for employees.

However, if an employer chooses to offer breaks, the FLSA mandates that any break lasting 20 minutes or less must be paid.

Meal breaks of 30 minutes or more do not need to be paid, as long as the employee is completely relieved of their duties during the break.

Sick Leave, Vacation Time, & Family Medical Leave in Alabama

Alabama state law does not require employers to provide paid sick leave or vacation time for employees.

However, private employers may choose to offer these benefits as part of an employment contract or company policy.

Regarding family medical leave, eligible employees in Alabama are covered under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).

FMLA allows employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave per year for specific medical and family reasons, such as the birth or adoption of a child, caring for a family member with a serious health condition, or dealing with their own serious health condition.

Workers’ Compensation in Alabama

Alabama employers (with five or more employees) are required to provide workers’ compensation coverage for their employees.

Workers’ compensation provides medical and wage benefits for employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses.

It is important to note that Alabama’s workers’ compensation laws do not cover independent contractors or certain agricultural employees.

Jury Duty Leave in Alabama

Employers in Alabama are required to provide unpaid leave for employees who are called to serve on jury duty.

They cannot require an employee to use annual leave, vacation days, unpaid leave, or sick leave for jury duty.

Under Alabama state law, employers must allow employees to take time off from work for the duration of their jury service.

Upon completion of jury duty, employees must be reinstated to their previous position or an equivalent one. It is illegal for employers to retaliate against employees for taking jury duty leave.

Department of Labor (DOL) Regulations in Alabama

The Alabama Department of Labor (DOL) is responsible for enforcing labor laws and regulations in the state.

The DOL ensures compliance with federal and state laws, including those related to wages, hours of work, child labor, and workplace safety.

Employers and employees can consult the Alabama DOL for guidance on labor law matters, and employees can file complaints with the DOL if they suspect their rights have been violated.

Recordkeeping Requirements for Alabama Employers

Alabama employers must maintain accurate and up-to-date records of their employees’ work hours, wages, and other relevant information.

Recordkeeping is essential for ensuring compliance with state and federal labor laws, such as minimum wage and overtime requirements.

Employers must retain these time records for a specified period, typically at least three years, as required by the FLSA.

Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA)

The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) is a federal law that prohibits discrimination against employees and job applicants who are 40 years of age or older.

The ADEA applies to Alabama employers and protects older workers from unfair treatment based on their age, including hiring, promotion, termination, and other employment decisions.

Full-Time Employees & Conditions of Employment

In Alabama, the definition of full-time employees and the specific conditions of employment may vary based on the employer’s policies and the employment contract.

However, full-time employees are generally those who work 40 hours or more per week. Employers may choose to offer benefits, such as health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans, to full-time employees as part of their employment conditions.

It is essential for employees to review their employment contracts and company policies to understand the terms and conditions of their employment.

Alabama Payroll Laws (Closing Thoughts)

We hope this guide has provided you with some useful insights into Alabama payroll laws. When employers and employees have a good knowledge of Alabama minimum wage, hour laws, overtime pay, and other labor law requirements, they can navigate the workplace with confidence and pour their attention into productivity and performance.

Disclaimer: Not Legal Advice

This blog post provides a general overview of Alabama labor laws but does not constitute legal advice. Laws and regulations are subject to change, and there may be additional requirements or exemptions that apply to specific situations. Employers and employees should consult a qualified labor law attorney for advice on their specific circumstances.

If you have any questions about your rights or obligations as an employer or employee in Alabama, it is essential to consult with a labor law attorney to receive accurate information and guidance tailored to your situation. By seeking professional legal advice, you can ensure that you are taking the appropriate steps to comply with labor laws and protect your rights.

US States

Need Help With Payroll?
Taxes filed for you, automatically.

Let Buddy Punch handle your payroll

Run payroll, pay employees & contractors, all in a few clicks.

Quickly pay your team, no matter where they are,