Florida employers, your payroll playbook is changing. Between minimum wage hikes and legislative updates, there are critical changes you need to track before year-end.
Minimum Wage Increase – Effective Sept. 30, 2025
Florida’s minimum wage increases to:
- $14.00/hour (standard minimum wage)
- $10.98/hour (tipped wage)
This is part of the state’s gradual annual increase toward $15/hour in 2026, approved by Amendment 2 in 2020.
Action step: Update your payroll system, employee pay rates, and tip declarations before the September deadline.
New Employment Law Changes (Effective July 1, 2025)
Florida passed several labor-related bills that impact compliance, especially around:
- Child labor restrictions
- Safety rules for minors in hazardous jobs
- Employer documentation requirements for certain industries (e.g., agriculture, construction)
Action step: Review updated handbooks and policies to ensure your business is aligned with the new legal framework.
Payroll Tax Landscape Reminder
Florida has no state income tax, but employers must still comply with:
- Federal tax withholding (via Form W-4)
- Reemployment tax (state unemployment)
- Quarterly UI reporting (Form RT-6)
Action step: Verify registration with the Florida Department of Revenue and confirm your SUTA rates for the new year.
Final Thought
Florida’s payroll rules are evolving and falling behind on wage updates or handbook changes could lead to compliance issues.