2026 HR Compliance Guide
Hawaii HR Compliance Deadlines for 2026
1 verified employment law change affecting Hawaii employers in 2026 — with effective dates, required actions, and penalties for non-compliance. Every entry cites an official government or agency source.
Hawaii state law changes
Hawaii Minimum Wage Increase to $16.00/hr
Hawaii's minimum wage rises from $14.00 to $16.00 per hour on January 1, 2026, as part of the phased schedule enacted under HB 2510. This $2.00/hr increase is the largest single-year jump in the schedule, moving Hawaii toward the $18.00/hr target by 2028. The tip credit amount also adjusts.
New: $16.00/hr (was $14.00/hr)
Applies to: All Hawaii employers
What to do: Update payroll to $16.00/hr, communicate the significant $2.00/hr increase to all stakeholders, adjust tip credit calculations, revise employee handbooks, and update required workplace postings.
Penalty: Back wages, penalties, and potential criminal fines
Federal deadlines that also apply
These federal requirements apply to Hawaii employers alongside the state rules above.
Stay compliant — and turn it into recertification credits
Track every Hawaii deadline on our free interactive compliance calendar, check how many HRCI or SHRM credits you still need with the Gap Planner, or start earning credits now with a free course.