Ontario’s general minimum wage is set to rise from $17.60 to $17.95 per hour effective October 1, 2026. This update reflects the latest change to minimum wage rates in the province.
The increase is part of Ontario’s annual adjustment mechanism, which is tied to inflation and calculated using the Ontario Consumer Price Index (CPI), in accordance with the Employment Standards Act, 2000.
| Job Category | Oct 1, 2024 – Sep 30, 2025 | Oct 1, 2025 – Sep 30, 2026 | Effective Oct 1, 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Minimum Wage | $17.20 per hour | $17.60 per hour | $17.95 per hour |
| Student Minimum Wage | $16.20 per hour | $16.60 per hour | $16.90 per hour |
| Homeworkers Wage | $18.90 per hour | $19.35 per hour | $19.70 per hour |
| Hunting, Fishing & Wilderness Guides (less than 5 hours/day) | -start=”572″ data-end=”589″>$86.00 per day | $88.05 per day | $89.75 per day |
| Hunting, Fishing & Wilderness Guides (5+ hours/day) | $172.05 per day | $176.15 per day | $179.50 per day |
If You’re Not Being Paid Minimum Wage
If you’re earning less than the applicable minimum wage — and you’re not exempt under Ontario’s Employment Standards Act — you may be entitled to back pay, compensation, and other remedies.
Ontario adjusts minimum wage annually based on the Ontario Consumer Price Index(CPI). New rates are typically announced by April 1 and take effect October 1 (Ontario Government – Minimum Wage Rules).
If your employer has failed to pay you the minimum wage — or owes you unpaid wages — you can:
- Use the Ontario Employment Standards Self-Service Tool to estimate what you’re owed
- File a claim with the Ministry of Labour within two years
- Or contact an employment lawyer in Ontario to understand your full legal options.
Faisal completed his Juris Doctor from University of Ottawa. He has extensive work experience at Deloitte, Scotiabank and CIBC. Faisal’s approach is grounded in a commitment to his clients’ objectives. He understands how frustrating the court process is for clients and fights to get you the best settlement possible.
