Minnesota Overtime Laws
Minnesota has its own overtime laws in addition to federal FLSA requirements.
Weekly OT Threshold
48 hrs
Daily OT Threshold
None
Double Time
No
Minimum Wage
$11.13
Overtime Rules
| Weekly Overtime | Hours over 48 in a workweek paid at 1.5x |
| Daily Overtime | Not required by state law |
| Double Time | Not required by state law |
| 7th Consecutive Day | No special rule |
Exemptions
The following categories of employees may be exempt from overtime requirements:
Executive, administrative, and professional employees
Important Notes
Minnesota state law requires overtime after 48 hours, but federal FLSA (40 hours) applies to most workers.
State Labor Department
Minnesota Economy and Workforce
Minnesota has a diversified economy with a real GDP of $395.3 billion in 2024. The state is known for its strength in medical technology, food processing, manufacturing, and financial services, with 19 Fortune 500 companies headquartered there.
Industries with Common Overtime
These Minnesota industries frequently involve overtime work situations:
Medical Technology and Healthcare
Minnesota is a global leader in medical device manufacturing, with companies like Medtronic and numerous healthcare systems employing workers who frequently work overtime to meet production demands and patient care needs.
Food Processing
As a major agricultural state producing sugar beets, corn, and turkeys, food processing facilities often require overtime work during harvest seasons and to meet consumer demand.
Manufacturing
Advanced manufacturing, including machinery and fabricated metal products, employs thousands of workers who may work overtime during production surges and order fulfillment periods.
Transportation and Warehousing
This fast-growing sector often requires overtime during peak shipping seasons, holidays, and when meeting tight delivery schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Minnesota state law requires overtime pay at 1.5 times your regular rate for hours worked over 48 in a seven-day period. However, most employers are also subject to federal FLSA rules, which require overtime after 40 hours per week. If your employer has gross annual sales over $500,000 or is involved in interstate commerce, the 40-hour federal threshold applies.
As of 2024, Minnesota's minimum wage is $10.85 per hour for large employers and $8.85 for small employers. The micro business rate (5 or fewer employees) is $12.25 per hour, increasing to $13.25 on July 1, 2025. Overtime is calculated at 1.5 times your regular hourly rate.
No. Minnesota law prohibits employers from retaliating against employees who file wage claims. Retaliation includes termination, demotion, reduction in hours, harassment, or any other adverse action. If you experience retaliation, you may have additional legal claims against your employer.
How to File a Wage Claim in Minnesota
If you believe you are owed overtime pay, follow these steps:
Gather all documentation including pay stubs, time records, and employment agreements
Download and complete the wage claim form from the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry website
Submit the completed form with all supporting documentation to the Department of Labor and Industry
The department will investigate and may pursue recovery of unpaid wages on your behalf, or you may file a private lawsuit
Important Minnesota Consideration
Minnesota has a unique dual overtime threshold system. State law sets overtime at 48 hours per week, but most employers must follow the stricter federal 40-hour standard. Workers should determine whether their employer is federally covered, which typically applies to businesses with over $500,000 in annual sales or those involved in interstate commerce.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for general educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Overtime laws can change and may have exceptions not listed here. For specific situations, consult with your employer's HR department, the state labor department, or an employment attorney.