The minimum wage is the legal floor — the amount below which an employer may not pay. It is updated periodically, so it is important to know the current figure, and particularly the hourly calculation and the rates for young workers.
Disclosure: Educational information only. Amounts are updated — verify with the Ministry of Labour. Any action you take is your own responsibility.
The 2026 minimum wage
From 1 April 2026, the minimum wage stands at:
| Measure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Monthly (full-time) | 6,443.85 ₪ |
| Hourly | 35.40 ₪ |
This represents an increase of roughly 3% on the previous figure. The monthly minimum refers to full-time employment. Anyone working part-time is entitled to a proportional wage, but never less than the hourly minimum for every hour worked.
Minimum wage by age (young workers)
A reduced minimum wage applies to young workers, set as a percentage of the adult rate. As of 2026:
| Age | Hourly minimum |
|---|---|
| Under 16 | 26.07 ₪ |
| 16–17 | 27.94 ₪ |
| 17–18 | 30.92 ₪ |
| 18 and over | 35.40 ₪ |
What the minimum wage includes — and does not
This matters more than most people realise: the minimum wage refers to base salary, and does not incorporate additions such as expense reimbursements, travel allowances, overtime or convalescence pay.
In other words, an employer may not assemble the minimum wage out of ancillary components. The base salary itself must meet the threshold.
What to do if you are paid less
Paying below the minimum wage is an offence. The steps are, first, to confirm on the payslip that the base salary genuinely falls below the threshold rather than a confusion over components. Second, approach the employer.
If that does not resolve it, you can approach the Ministry of Labour's employment arm or seek legal advice. You are also owed retroactive wage differentials, not merely correction going forward.
Common mistakes
1. Confusing gross with net. The minimum wage is measured in gross terms. See gross to net.
2. Assuming travel allowances count toward it. They are separate.
3. Not checking the hourly calculation in part-time work.
Summary
The minimum wage is a basic right that cannot be waived. As of 2026 it is 6,443.85 ₪ a month, or 35.40 ₪ an hour. Check that your payslip meets the threshold — and if it does not, there are routes to fix it. See more in employee rights.
The information on this page is for educational purposes. Please consult a professional before making financial decisions.
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