The federal minimum wage has been $7.25 an hour since July 24, 2009. Most states now set a higher rate, and some cities and counties go higher still. You are owed whichever rate is highest where you work. In states without a higher rate, such as Alabama and Tennessee, the federal $7.25 applies.
Minimum wage is checked one workweek at a time. Your pay for the week, divided by your hours, has to reach the minimum. For a tipped employee, tips you keep can count toward it only if your employer takes a lawful tip credit.
Deductions that benefit the employer, such as uniforms or breakage, cannot push your pay below the minimum. That rule is called "free and clear" payment. See deduction and the state pages for your rate.
Check your own paycheck
Enter your stub and your hours. The checker applies your state's rules and shows anything that is short, with the rule behind it. Nothing you type leaves your browser.