Howard County, Maryland Minimum Wage Supplemental Poster

What is the Howard County, Maryland minimum wage?

Howard County uses a local minimum wage schedule. Covered employers generally reached $16.00 per hour before 2026, while smaller employers reach $16.00 per hour effective July 1, 2026. Employers should review current County guidance to determine which rate and effective date apply.

Does Howard County use different minimum wage rates based on employer size?

Yes. Howard County has used separate phase-in schedules for larger employers and smaller employers. Employer classification can affect the applicable minimum wage rate and effective date.

What is considered a smaller employer in Howard County?

Howard County identifies certain employers as smaller employers, including businesses with 14 or fewer employees and certain nonprofit, home health, community-based service, and food-service employers. Employers should review current County definitions to determine their classification.

Does this poster replace Maryland state or federal labor law posters?

No. This is a Howard County supplemental notice and does not replace generally applicable Maryland state or federal workplace postings.

Can the Howard County minimum wage be higher than the Maryland state minimum wage?

Yes. Howard County has adopted its own local minimum wage requirements, so employers must review the local, state, and federal wage rules that apply to their employees.

Will Howard County minimum wage rates continue to change after 2026?

Yes. Howard County states that beginning in January 2027, future minimum wage adjustments are tied to the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers.

How can employers track Howard County minimum wage changes?

Employers can review the Historical City & Local Minimum Wage Chart and should monitor current Howard County guidance for future adjustments.

Where can I find Maryland labor law posters?

Employers can review available Maryland Labor Law Posters, including State & Federal combination posters, state-only posters, and applicable city or county supplements.