Updated November 2026

Florida’s minimum wage reached $15.00 per hour on September 30, 2026. For students beginning paid work experiences, families preparing for a first paycheck, and employers hosting young workers, this change is a useful opportunity to review both pay requirements and the skills that make a work experience meaningful.

Confirmed facts

The Florida Department of Commerce states that the state minimum wage is $15.00 per hour effective September 30, 2026, and that this rate remains in effect through December 31, 2027. Employers should use the current state minimum-wage notice and review the rules that apply to their workers. View Florida’s official minimum-wage information.

Florida Vocational Rehabilitation describes Work-Based Learning Experiences, or WBLEs, as community-based experiences that use real workplaces and real work to help students with disabilities connect what they learn in school to career opportunities. Learn about Florida VR transition services.

Mentoring Me Inc.’s interpretation

A higher wage makes it even more important for a paid experience to be planned well. A student should leave with more than hours on a timesheet. The experience should help the student practice communication, dependability, workplace safety, problem solving, teamwork, and other skills that can be explained in a future interview.

For employers, clear duties and consistent supervision support both the student and the business. For families, a first paycheck can open practical conversations about budgeting, saving, taxes, transportation, and the difference between gross pay and take-home pay.

One practical next step

Before a paid work experience begins, write down three items: the student’s expected duties, the skills the student will practice, and the person who will provide supervision and feedback. If the experience is subject to Florida’s minimum-wage requirements, confirm that the pay rate and payroll records reflect the current rate.

Students and families interested in career exploration, workplace readiness, self-advocacy, postsecondary counseling, WBLE, or adult employment services may complete Mentoring Me Inc.’s Request Services form. Submitting the form is a request for information and does not guarantee eligibility, enrollment, services, or authorization from Florida Vocational Rehabilitation.