We are excited to share our 2026 HR Compliance Calendar, 2026-2027 Federal & State Holiday Calendar, and HEC’s 2026 Survey Schedule! These calendars, along with other great online resources, are also available on our website.

Our HR Compliance Calendar is available in an easily editable format in Microsoft Word and includes HR deadlines, holidays, and fun engagement ideas.  Our holiday calendar includes federal and state holidays in an easy-to-read format. And our 2026 survey schedule lists all surveys that will be conducted in the upcoming year, which provide valuable compensation and benefit information to employers in Hawaii.

As you plan for the new year, employers should also consider the following:

• Effective January 1, 2026, Hawaii’s minimum wage will increase from $14/hour to $16/hour. Employers taking a tip credit must pay tipped employees at least $14.75/hour. Employers should keep in mind that minimum wage increases may create wage compression, where pay differences between entry-level roles and positions requiring more experience may narrow. Participating in our surveys is a great way to evaluate your compensation and benefit plans!
• Although tax changes pursuant to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) applies to the 2025 taxable year, starting in 2026, employers must update tip and overtime recordkeeping processes for employees who may qualify for tax deductions to comply with OBBBA reporting requirements that will be enforced in the 2026 taxable year, including updated Form W-2s.

If you have questions regarding wage and hour laws, record-keeping requirements, or HR best practices, please contact your HR Consultant for assistance.

Please note the information provided is for informational purposes only and may not reflect the most current regulatory developments.  We strive to keep our materials up to date, but there may be occasions when information becomes outdated.  Users are encouraged to verify the applicability of the content before relying on it for decision-making.  If you have any questions or concerns regarding the accuracy or relevance of the information, please contact us directly for assistance.