Minimum Wage
The minimum wage is the lowest wage an employer can pay their employees. Each province or territory sets and changes its own minimum wages. Most workers are eligible for minimum wage, whether they are full-time, part-time, or seasonal.
Do you have questions about paying your employees? Our experts can help. Here’s what employers need to know about minimum employment standards for paying wages.
Saskatchewan general minimum wage increased to $13 per hour on October 1, 2022
As of October 1, 2022, the minimum wage in Saskatchewan increased to $13 per hour from $11.81 an hour. Any change to the provincial minimum wage is announced annually in June and comes into force on October 1.
The hourly minimum wage rate applies to most employees in Saskatchewan. However, there are some exemptions. These include:
- Farming, ranching, or market garden labourers.
- Some care providers work in private homes.
- Babysitters (only if they are temporary).
- Athletes while engaged in athletic pursuits.
- Volunteers for non-profits.
- Those with a physical or mental disability working for a non-profit in programs that are therapeutic, educational, or rehabilitative.
Employers must stay on top of any change to the minimum wage. If you have any concerns about paying your employee, call Employer Line’s experts today. Our team is here around the clock to ensure you are staying compliant.
What does this mean for employers?
As the Saskatchewan minimum wage changes annually, you’ll have to prepare your business by:
- Updating contracts and policies to reflect these changes.
- Communicating any transition to your staff.
- Ensuring your payroll systems are updated.
Managing minimum wage changes is a big job – and between running your business and managing your staff, payroll changes can sometimes be forgotten. Get expert support from Employer Line today.
The “three-hour” rule
Most employees are entitled to a minimum call-out pay. This means every time they report for work (other than overtime) they must be paid a minimum of three hours at their hourly wage. This occurs even if there is no work for them that day. If an employee works less than three hours, you must still pay them for a minimum of three hours of work.
One exception to this rule is students (up to grade 12) during the school term. These workers are to be paid a minimum of one hour of work at their hourly wage whenever they’re called in. The three-hour rule does apply when students are working between school terms.
Get expert help on minimum wage today
Employer Line is here to help you understand Saskatchewan’s regulations around compensation. Whether it’s a question about contracts or minimum wage, we’re here to help your business.
Call our free employer helpline and speak with one of our HR experts today at 1 (306) 952-5891.