Intro to New Jersey Labor Laws

Get an overview of the New Jersey labor laws small businesses should know when hiring, and updates on employment laws that could impact your business.

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Last updated on January 12th, 2026

Minimum Wage

The state minimum wage in New Jersey is $15.23 for five employees or less, and $15.92 for six employees or more.

References:

Minimum Exempt Salary Requirements

New Jersey follows the federal minimum exempt requirement of $684 per week or $35,568 per year for most exemptions from minimum wage and overtime.

References: Federal Minimum Exemption Threshold

Meal & Rest Laws

In New Jersey, employers are only required to provide minors, under the age of 18, with a 30-minute meal break after five consecutive hours of work. New Jersey follows federal regulations and doesn’t require employers to offer rest breaks.

References: Meal & Rest Period

Lactation Accommodation Laws

Employers must provide reasonable break time to breastfeeding employees and a private place to pump that isn’t a bathroom stall.

References: New Jersey Breastfeeding

This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, legal or tax advice. If you have any legal or tax questions regarding this content or related issues, then you should consult with your professional legal or tax advisor.

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