Rhode Island Employment Contract

A Rhode Island employment contract outlines the terms and conditions of employment. It establishes a relationship between an employer and an employee and outlines elements such as the period of employment, the salary the employee will receive, the employee’s job responsibilities, how to terminate the employment relationship, and any confidentiality or non-disclosure clauses the employer may wish to include.

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Employment Contracts: What to Consider as an Employer in Rhode Island
Rhode Island Employment Contract Sample

Employment Contracts: What to Consider as an Employer in Rhode Island

Before hiring employees in Rhode Island, you need to be aware of the state employment laws and regulations, such as if employment certificates are required for minors and what the state minimum wage is.

At-Will

Rhode Island is an at-will employment state.

Minimum Wage Laws in Rhode Island

Basic Minimum Rate (per hour): $13.00

Premium Pay After Designated Hours: Weekly – 40

Time and a half premium pay is required on Sundays and holidays in retail and other certain businesses. However, there are some exceptions. [1]

Employment/Age Certification in Rhode Island

Rhode Island requires employment certificates for minors under 16.

Age certification is also required in Rhode Island for minors 16 and 17.

Both employment certificates and age certifications can be obtained through the minor’s school.

Payday Requirements in Rhode Island

Rhode Island required most employers to pay employees on a weekly basis. Childcare providers have the option to be paid every two weeks.

Employers that meet specific requirements outlined in Rhode Island General Law Section 28-14-2.2 can seek permission from the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training to pay employees less frequently than weekly (but at least twice a month).

Minimum Periods for Breaks and Meals in Rhode Island

Rhode Island does not require minimum paid break periods, however, meal periods are required. Employees working a six-hour shift are entitled to a 20-minute mealtime, while employees working an eight-hour shift are entitled to a 30-minute mealtime.