Question 1

What is minimum wage?

Accepted Answer

Arizona law requires employers to pay employees no less than the minimum wage, which the statute sets at not less than $12 per hour on and after January 1, 2020, following annual step-ups that began at $10 on January 1, 2017 .

The statute does not state the current dollar figure — instead, it establishes that $12 baseline and provides that the minimum wage is increased on January 1, 2021 and on January 1 of each successive year by the increase in the cost of living . That increase is measured by the percentage change in the consumer price index (all urban consumers, U.S. city average for all items), comparing August of the immediately preceding year to August of the previous year, as published by the U.S. Department of Labor, with the increase rounded to the nearest multiple of five cents . To learn the current rate, consult the annually published adjusted figure, which reflects this yearly cost-of-living increase .

One exception: for employees who customarily and regularly receive tips, an employer may pay up to $3.00 per hour less than the minimum wage, provided records or the employee's FICA declaration show that tips plus wages equal at least the minimum wage for all hours worked .

For enforcement questions, note that a civil action to recover unpaid minimum wages may be brought by a private party within two years of a violation, or three years for a willful violation . If you believe you have been underpaid, consider consulting a licensed Arizona attorney .

Question 2

How often does my employer have to pay me?

Accepted Answer

Your employer must designate two or more fixed paydays each month, no more than sixteen days apart.

Question 3

When do I get my final paycheck?

Accepted Answer

Within seven working days (or by the next regular payday, whichever is sooner) if fired; by the regular payday if you quit.

Question 4

Can I be fired without warning or for no reason?

Accepted Answer

Yes — for most private-sector employees in Arizona, you can be fired without warning and without a stated reason, unless a contract or specific statute protects you.

Question 5

Can my employer cut my hours or change my schedule?

Accepted Answer

Generally yes — Arizona law does not restrict a private employer from cutting your hours or changing your schedule.