Every country safeguards its citizens by establishing a minimum wage, ensuring fair compensation for labor. In British Columbia (BC), the minimum wage increase is particularly significant given the rising costs of goods and services, which have become a primary concern for the working class. This adjustment helps ensure that individuals can cover essential expenses in an era of heightened inflation and increasing consumer price indices (CPI). The BC government regularly reviews and adjusts these wages annually, reflecting the economic climate.
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What is Minimum Wage?
Minimum wage is the lowest amount an employer is legally required to pay their employees. This rate is set by law, and employers must at least meet this threshold, though they can choose to pay more. The specific minimum wage can vary based on the type of job and is determined by provincial legislation. In British Columbia (BC), the Employment Standards Act governs the minimum wage.
Overview of the BC Minimum Wage Increase
Workers in British Columbia are entitled to the minimum wage set by the provincial government, except for those in federal employment who follow federal wage standards. Employees working standard hours are entitled to receive the BC minimum wage unless already compensated at that level. For the current financial year, the minimum wage will be at least CAD 17.40 per hour.
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Background on British Columbia’s Minimum Wage Increases
As of June 1, 2023, BC’s minimum wage increased from $15.65 to $16.75. This change was part of a series of adjustments recommended by BC’s Fair Wages Commission from 2018 to 2021, aimed at narrowing the gap between the minimum wage and the living wage in the province.
The 6.9% increase in 2023 was aligned with the rise in the cost of living in 2022, based on the Consumer Price Index. This method mirrors approaches in other regions, where minimum wage adjustments are tied to annual inflation rates.
Current Minimum Wage Rates
As of June 1, 2024, the minimum wage in British Columbia is $17.40 per hour, an increase from $16.75 in the previous year. The historical progression of the minimum wage is as follows:
| Date | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|
| June 1, 2024 | $17.40 |
| June 1, 2023 | $16.75 |
| June 1, 2022 | $15.65 |
| June 1, 2021 | $15.20 |
| June 1, 2020 | $14.60 |
| June 1, 2019 | $13.85 |
This hourly minimum wage applies to most employees, regardless of their payment structure—hourly, salary, commission, or incentive. If an employee’s wage falls below the minimum for hours worked, employers are required to compensate the difference to meet the minimum wage.
Does the Minimum Wage Increase Apply to All Jobs?
No. In British Columbia, certain job categories have distinct minimum wage rates. For example, live-in camp leaders, live-in home support workers, and resident caretakers have specific pay structures. While these positions have different wage standards, they also saw increases on June 1, 2023.
- Live-in home support workers receive a daily rate, which was adjusted to $124.73 per day or part day worked.
- Live-in camp leaders saw their daily rate increase to $133.69.
- Resident caretakers‘ minimum wage rose to $1,002.53 per month, plus $40.17 per suite for those managing nine to 60 suites, and $3,414.85 per month for those responsible for 61 or more suites.
Specific Minimum Wage Rates for Certain Employees
Liquor Servers: Employees primarily serving food or drink, including liquor, must be paid the regular minimum wage along with any tips or gratuities.
| Date | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
| June 1, 2024 | $17.40 |
| June 1, 2023 | $16.75 |
| June 1, 2022 | $15.65 |
Live-in Camp Leaders: These workers are compensated with a daily rate for each day worked.
| Date | Amount |
|---|---|
| June 1, 2024 | $138.93 |
| June 1, 2023 | $133.69 |
Live-in Home Support Workers: These workers also receive a daily rate for their services.
| Date | Amount |
|---|---|
| June 1, 2024 | $129.62 |
| June 1, 2023 | $124.73 |
Resident Caretakers: Their basic wage is based on how many suites are in the building each month. For nine to 60 suites:
| Date | Number of Suites | Monthly Fee | Additional Fee per Suite | Total Monthly Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| June 1, 2024 | Fewer than 61 | $1,041.80 | $41.74 | Calculated as: $1,041.80 + ($41.74 × Number of Suites) |
| June 1, 2024 | 61 or more | $3,548.63 | N/A | $3,548.63 |
Piece Rate Workers: Some employees are compensated based on measurable work output, with specific piece rates communicated before work commences. They may also receive different wages for particular tasks.
What Are Employers Expected to Do?
Starting June 1, 2024, employers in British Columbia are required to pay their minimum wage workers at least $17.40 per hour. If an employee has been underpaid, the employer must compensate the difference dating back to June 1.
What you can do
Learn what you can do if you’re having problems at work:
Overall, the BC minimum wage increase for 2024 reflects ongoing efforts to provide fair compensation in a changing economic landscape.