As we approach the new year, New York employers should be aware of increases to the state exempt status salary thresholds and minimum wage that will take effect on January 1, 2026.

Exempt Salary Threshold Increases

Under New York State wage law, employees working in an executive or administrative capacity must receive a minimum weekly salary (as well as meet certain duties requirements) to be exempt from the state’s overtime pay requirements. Beginning January 1, 2026, the thresholds for these exemptions will be as follows:

• $1,275.00 per week ($66,300.00 per year) for employees in New York City and Nassau, Suffolk, and Westchester Counties
• $1,199.10 per week ($62,353.20 per year) for employees elsewhere in New York State

These represent increases from the 2025 thresholds of $1,237.50 per week/$64,350.00 per year (NYC, Long Island, and Westchester) and $1,161.65 per week/$60,405.80 per year (remainder of the state).

New York does not designate a threshold salary for exemption for employees working in a professional capacity. Therefore, for New York employees classified under the professional exemption, the current federal salary threshold of $684.00 per week ($35,568.00 per year) will continue to apply.

Minimum Wage Increases

Effective January 1, 2026, the final scheduled increases to New York State’s minimum wage will take effect as follows:

• $17.00 per hour for employees in New York City and Nassau, Suffolk, and Westchester Counties
• $16.00 per hour for employees...

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