Pennsylvania Labor Laws: A Complete Guide to Wages, Breaks, Overtime, and More (2025)

Let’s take a deep dive into Pennsylvania’s labor laws, with details on all the important aspects of the state’s regulations on your employees.

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FAQ
What is the minimum wage in Pennsylvania for 2025?

In Pennsylvania, the minimum wage is set at $7.25 per hour, which aligns with the federal minimum wage.

For employees eligible for overtime, Pennsylvania adheres to the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), which mandates overtime pay at a rate of 1.5 times the regular hourly rate for hours worked over 40 in a workweek.

Starting January 1, 2025, a new minimum salary requirement of $1,128 per week will apply for FLSA overtime exemptions.

Are breaks required for employees in Pennsylvania, and if so, how are they compensated?

Yes, Pennsylvania labor laws require specific breaks for employees. A 30-minute unpaid lunch break is mandatory for any employee working more than five hours in a single day, provided they are relieved of all duties.

Additionally, employees are entitled to a paid rest break of 10 minutes for every four hours worked. Short breaks (typically lasting between 5 to 20 minutes) must be compensated and count towards total hours worked.

What types of leave are mandated for employees in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania does not have statewide mandates for most types of leave, including paid sick leave, vacation days, or holiday leave. However, specific local laws in cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh may impose their own regulations.

Employees are entitled to unpaid leave for jury duty, and while there’s no state law for voting leave, employees are encouraged to vote outside of work hours.

Additionally, the state provides unpaid military leave for eligible employees and extends rights for organ and bone marrow donors under the Living Donor Protection Act.

What are the requirements for final paychecks after an employee separates from a job in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, employers must provide a separated employee with their final paycheck by the next regular payday after separation.

For voluntary resignations, the paycheck must be provided by the next scheduled payday or within 15 days, whichever is sooner.

Employers are only allowed to make authorized deductions from the final paycheck, and there is no state mandate to compensate for unused vacation or paid time off upon separation.

What are Pennsylvania's key child labor laws?

Minors under 18 in Pennsylvania are required to obtain an Employment Certificate (or Work Permit) before they can be employed. These permits can typically be obtained through their school by contacting a guidance counselor or school administrator.

The laws also regulate the hours and types of work that minors can perform to ensure their safety and well-being in the workplace.

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