New Jersey Overtime Laws

  New Jersey provides robust overtime protections for employees, often exceeding the requirements of the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Understanding these state-specific provisions is crucial for both employers and employees.

 

Key Provisions of New Jersey Overtime Law:

• Overtime Pay: New Jersey mandates overtime pay at 1.5 times the regular rate of pay for hours worked over 40 in a workweek, aligning with the FLSA.

 

• Exemptions: New Jersey has its own set of exemptions to overtime laws, which differ from federal exemptions. It’s crucial to understand these state-specific exemptions to determine eligibility for overtime pay. Some common exemptions include:
  • Executive, Administrative, and Professional Employees: These employees must meet specific salary and duties tests to be exempt.
  • Outside Salespersons: Employees engaged in sales outside the employer’s place of business.

 

• Enforcement: The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL) is responsible for enforcing the state’s wage and hour laws, including overtime regulations.

Minimum Wage in New Jersey

  New Jersey has a higher minimum wage than the federal minimum wage. As of January 1, 2023, it is $14.13 per hour, and it is set to increase to $15.00 per hour on January 1, 2025.

Statute of Limitations

  New Jersey employees have up to six years from the date their wages were due to take legal action and recover any unpaid earnings. State law goes even further to protect workers in cases of willful violations. If an employer knowingly or recklessly disregarded the law in failing to pay proper wages, the statute of limitations extends to ten years. 

Damages for unpaid overtime

New Jersey employees can typically recover the following damages:

• • • • • • • • • • Unpaid overtime wages
                  • Liquidated (double) damages in some cases
                  • Attorneys’ fees
                  • Costs associated with the legal action

 

Need Help with New Jersey Overtime Laws?

  If you believe your employer has violated New Jersey overtime laws, it’s essential to seek legal counsel. Our experienced overtime attorneys can help you understand your rights and pursue a claim for unpaid wages.