Question:
Are cost-of-living raises mandatory?
Answer:
Some state minimum wage adjustments are tied to the consumer price index, but otherwise, cost-of-living raises are not required by state or federal law. You just need to make sure you’re paying any applicable state and municipal minimum wages. That said, if the cost of living has increased in your area, you might want to raise wages (if you can afford it) to stay competitive in the market.
Advice provided by Mineral. This Q&A does not constitute legal advice and does not address state or local law.
David Katz
Vice President
VMA Insurance Services
To send your questions, write to david@visualmediaalliance.org