Did you know that the Ontario minimum wage is increasing in October? Effective October 1, 2017, minimum wage will be increasing to $11.60 per hour. Currently, minimum wage sits at $11.40 per hour.
This $0.20 pay advance looms before an even larger increase. Minimum wage is expected to increase further to $14 per hour starting on January 1, 2018, a large jump in comparison to $11.60 per hour. Then, in January 2019, minimum will increase to $15 per hour. These wage increases are proposed to provide Ontario workers will the ability to live comfortably either part time, or full time, at a minimum wage job.
So what do these wage increases mean for workers and employers? Read on.
For Workers:
If you are a current assignment employee of Liberty Staffing Services, the increase in minimum wage could affect you. Taking a look at the most upcoming wage increase, if you are currently being paid below $11.60 per hour, your wage will change to the new increase effective October 2017. Employees who are currently paid more than $11.60 per hour may not receive a wage increase - this decision will be made at the sole discretion of the employer.
For more information on the wage increase this October, please visit the Government of Ontario website.
This is the same for the proposed $14 and $15 per hour increases after that. Once January 2018 and January 2019 hit, your wage will increase to these rates if you are paid below these amounts before the dates specified.
For Employers:
Are you a business owner in Ontario, or involved in the HR department at your company? If so, it is important to be knowledgeable and understand what the new minimum wage means for your business and your employees.
Be on top of the situation. You have the option of increasing your workers' pay rates before the legislated dates. Or, you can make the changes gradually, before the minimum wage is in effect, so that you get accustomed to the new rates and your business doesn't suffer financially all at once.
If you have any questions regarding the upcoming minimum wage increases and how it could affect you, please contact Liberty Staffing. We would be happy to help you.
