Taking Care that You Follow New York Guidelines Regarding the Legal Age to Work
As an employer in New York, it’s essential that you keep an eye on certain issues, so that you don’t run afoul of workplace and labor laws, which can be costly. One of the most important can involve the age of your employees, particularly those who are minors.
Ensuring that You’re Meeting the Rules Regarding the Legal Age to Work in NY
New York has very specific requirements related to when and how much minors can work. Those regulations vary, based on whether school is in session, and whether the minor is actually attending school.
- 14- and 15-year-olds—During the academic year, the youngest workers may not work more than 3 hours per day on school days and 8 hours on weekends. They are limited to 18 hours in any given week and may not work more than 6 out of any 7 days. All work must be done between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.
During breaks and summer vacation, these workers may put in up to 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week. They may also work until 9 p.m. between June 21 and Labor Day.
- 16- and 17-year-olds—When school is in session, older minors can work up to four hours per day, Monday through Thursday, and 8 hours per day the rest of the week. They are limited to 28 hours per week and may not work more than 6 days per week. They can come in as early as 6 a.m. and work until 10 p.m.
At other times of the year, a 16- or 17-year-old may work 8 hours per day, 48 hours per week, but no more than 6 days per week. Work hours are extended to midnight.
If a minor is legally not in school, he or she can work 8 hours per day, 48 hours per week, for a maximum of 6 days per week, from 6 a.m. until midnight.
Let Stephen Hans & Associates Handle Your Employment Law Concerns
At Stephen Hans & Associates, our attorneys are glad to answer your questions and provide legal advice. Years of experience have provided us with extensive knowledge regarding employment law. We have successfully represented many employers throughout the greater New York City area in litigation involving workplace disputes. Our offices are conveniently located in Long Island City with easy access from Manhattan.