Connecticut Payroll Laws (2024 Guide For Employers)

What do you know about Connecticut payroll laws?

Straight off the bat, here are a few key points:

• The Connecticut minimum wage is $15.69 per hour.
• Employees must get paid at least weekly.
• The overtime rate is 1.5 times the employee’s regular rate of pay.

When it comes to understanding Connecticut payroll and employment laws, there is plenty of information for you to take in. Both employees and employers should aim to familiarize themselves with payroll and employment laws to ensure compliance.

Without wasting any time, let’s dive in.

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 Connecticut payroll laws.

Payday Laws in Connecticut

Connecticut employers are required to pay their employees on a regular basis, with paydays occurring at least weekly for most hourly employees.

If an employee’s wages are not paid on the designated payday, the employer must pay the employee by the next business day.

If the employer fails to pay the employee on time, the employee may file a wage claim with the Connecticut Department of Labor (DOL).

Connecticut Overtime Pay & Exemptions

In Connecticut, non-exempt employees are entitled to overtime pay for any hours worked over 40 in a workweek.

The overtime rate is 1.5 times the employee’s regular rate of pay.

There are exemptions to the overtime pay requirement for certain categories of employees, such as executive, administrative, and professional employees.

It is crucial for employers to correctly classify their employees to avoid penalties for non-compliance.

Minimum Wage in Connecticut

The Connecticut minimum wage is subject to change, so it is crucial for employers and employees to stay up to date with the current minimum wage rate.

As of January 2024, the Connecticut minimum wage is $15.69 per hour.

Employers must pay their employees at least the minimum wage for all hours worked, with some exceptions for tipped employees and minors.

Meal & Rest Breaks in Connecticut

Under Connecticut labor laws, employers must provide a meal break of at least 30 consecutive minutes to employees who work 7.5 or more hours in a day.

This break must be provided within the first five hours of the workday.

Paid Family & Medical Leave (PFML) in Connecticut

Connecticut’s Paid Family and Medical Leave Act (PFMLA) provides eligible employees with up to 12 weeks of paid leave in a 12-month period for specific family and medical reasons.

Employers must be aware of both the PFMLA and FMLA requirements to ensure compliance.

Time Off & Leave Policies in Connecticut

Connecticut employers are required to provide their employees with various types of time off, including sick leave, jury duty, and military leave.

The state mandates that employers with at least 50 employees provide paid sick leave to eligible employees.

Employers are also required to provide unpaid leave for employees who are called to serve on a jury or for military duty.

Workers’ Compensation & Occupational Safety in Connecticut

Connecticut employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance (if they have one employee or more) to provide benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses.

The state’s workers’ compensation system is a no-fault system, meaning that employees can receive benefits regardless of who is at fault for the injury or illness.

Employers must also comply with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations to maintain a safe and healthy work environment.

Anti-Discrimination & Harassment Laws in Connecticut

Connecticut’s Fair Employment Practices Act (FEPA) prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religious creed, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, national origin, ancestry, present or past history of mental disability, intellectual disability, learning disability, or physical disability.

Employers must ensure that their workplace is free from discrimination and harassment, including sexual harassment.

Recordkeeping & Wage Records in Connecticut

Connecticut employers are required to maintain accurate wage records for all employees.

This includes information such as hours worked, wages paid, overtime pay, and deductions.

Employers must keep these records for a minimum of three years and make them available for inspection by the Connecticut Department of Labor (DOL) if requested.

Proper recordkeeping is essential for ensuring compliance with labor laws and resolving any wage disputes that may arise.

Resignations & Notice Requirements in Connecticut

Employees in Connecticut are not required by state law to provide notice when they quit their job.

However, it is generally considered a professional courtesy to provide at least two weeks’ notice before leaving a position.

Employers may have different policies regarding notice requirements, so it is essential for employees to consult their employment contracts or employee handbooks for specific guidelines.

Work Hours & Full-Time Employment in Connecticut

Connecticut labor laws do not explicitly define full-time employment or set a maximum number of work hours per day or week for adult employees.

However, employers must adhere to hour laws, such as providing overtime pay for non-exempt employees who work over 40 hours in a workweek.

Employers should also be mindful of any applicable federal laws, such as the FLSA, which may impact work hours and overtime requirements.

Connecticut Payroll Laws (Closing Thoughts)

We hope this article has provided you with a brief understanding of payroll and labor laws in Connecticut.

Those with a good knowledge of Connecticut laws and regulations can successfully navigate the workplace effectively and ensure compliance.

Regardless of whether you are an employee or employer, it’s vitally important to know about Connecticut payroll and employment laws.

Disclaimer: Not Legal Advice

This blog post provides a general overview of Connecticut 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 Connecticut, 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.

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