Understanding Alberta’s minimum wage is crucial for both employers and employees.
This comprehensive guide aims to answer all your questions about the minimum wage in Alberta, from the current rates to employer responsibilities and more.
What is the Minimum Wage in Alberta?
The general minimum wage in Alberta is $15.00 per hour.
However, different roles and age groups have specific rates, which we will delve into below.
General Minimum Wage in Alberta
The current general minimum wage in Alberta stands at $15.00 per hour. This rate is supported by Alberta’s employment standards and legal frameworks.
Different Rates for Different Roles
The minimum wage in Alberta varies depending on the role and the age of the employee. Here’s a breakdown:
- Minimum Wage for Alberta Students: Students under 18 have a minimum wage of $13/hour for the first 28 hours worked in a week during the school year.
- Minimum Wage for Alberta Salespersons: Salespersons are entitled to a weekly minimum wage of $598.
- Minimum Wage for Domestic Employees: Domestic employees living in their employer’s home have a monthly minimum wage of $2,848.
Employer Responsibilities in Alberta
Employers in Alberta are required to pay employees for a minimum of three hours of pay at the minimum wage each time they report to work.
Additionally, employers can reduce wages below the minimum wage by a maximum of $4.41 for lodging and $3.35 for meals with written authorization from employees.
Historical Perspective on Alberta’s Minimum Wage
The minimum wage in Alberta has seen several changes over the years.
The last significant increase was in October 2018, when it was raised from $13.60 to $15.00 per hour.
Comparing Alberta’s Minimum Wage to Other Provinces
When compared to other Canadian provinces, Alberta’s minimum wage is competitive, standing at $15.00 per hour.
Source: Retail Council of Canada – Minimum Wage by Province
- Average Minimum Wage: The average minimum wage across Canadian provinces as of 2023 is approximately $15.29 per hour.
- Highest Minimum Wage: Yukon has the highest minimum wage at $16.77 per hour.
- Lowest Minimum Wage: Saskatchewan has the lowest minimum wage at $13.00 per hour.
- Alberta’s Position: Alberta’s minimum wage of $15.00 per hour is slightly below the national average but higher than several provinces like Saskatchewan and Manitoba.
Impact on Small Businesses
Changes in the minimum wage can have a significant impact on small businesses. Employers need to be aware of the current rates and plan their budgets accordingly.
Occupations Exempt from Minimum Wage
Certain occupations, such as farm workers and hunting guides, are exempt from Alberta’s minimum wage standards.
FAQs About Alberta’s Minimum Wage
- Is the minimum wage going up in 2023?: As of April 2023, there are no plans to increase the minimum wage in Alberta.
- What is the minimum wage for individuals under 18 in Alberta?: The minimum wage for individuals under 18 is $13/hour for the first 28 hours worked in a week during the school year.
In Summary
- The general minimum wage in Alberta is $15.00 per hour.
- Specific rates exist for students under 18, salespersons, and domestic employees.
- Employers have responsibilities, including a minimum of three hours of pay.
- Alberta’s minimum wage is competitive when compared to other Canadian provinces.
