Some employees in New York will find more money in their paychecks as of the end of this year. The minimum wage is scheduled to rise for employees in specific geographical areas. As of December 31, 2021, the minimum wage for workers in Westchester and Long Island will go from $14 to $15 an hour.
The minimum wage for workers in other areas of New York State except for New York City, where the minimum has already hit $15, will increase from $12.50 to $13.20 an hour. (By law, New York State employees must get a minimum of $13.20 an hour starting at the end of this year.) The minimum wage levels cited here are applicable through December 30, 2022.
The minimum wage has been gradually rising in New York since December 31, 2016. At that time, wage hikes began to be phased in for big employers (ones with at least 11 employees) and small ones (10 or fewer employees) in New York City, along with employers in Westchester, Long Island and New York State.
How does a rise in minimum wage benefit workers and businesses?
There are some compelling arguments about the benefits of raising the minimum wage. Employees making more money will tend to stay put instead of switching jobs to land a heftier paycheck. Employers save money when they don’t have to utilize training and onboarding processes for new workers as frequently. More money flows into the hands of low-income people who will then pump it back into the economy with their spending.
In addition, employees who are paid more will typically respond by being doing their jobs more satisfactorily. That can lead to happier customers.
A significant positive change in workers’ lives
Making more money due to the minimum wage change is a plus for employees. Ask questions if you need more information about how your employer is putting this raise into practice, or if you believe you are not getting the wages you should be.
