Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) Practice Exam 2026 - Free Payroll Practice Questions and Study Guide

The federal minimum wage is set at $7.25 per hour. This amount has been in effect since July 24, 2009, reflecting the ongoing national standard established by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). The minimum wage is intended to provide a basic level of income for workers, ensuring a minimum standard of living.

The other amounts listed do not represent the current federal minimum wage—$5.15 was previously in effect but was superseded, and $6.50 and $8.00 have not been established as federal minimum wage levels. Therefore, recognizing $7.25 as the current federal minimum wage is essential for understanding labor laws and compliance in payroll practices.