Hiring Minors for Summer 2025: Key Compliance Reminders for New York Employers
As summer approaches, many businesses and camps are preparing to hire minors for seasonal positions. Before welcoming young workers, employers must ensure full compliance with New York’s child labor regulations.
Until the modernized minor employment regulations take effect in two years, employers must abide by these existing rules:
Working Papers Required
Minors ages 14 to 17 must present valid “working papers” before starting any job. These employment certificates are issued after completing the New York State application and providing medical clearance from a healthcare provider.
- New York residents may obtain working papers from their school’s guidance office or school district office.
- Non-residents hired by New York employers may request working papers through the school district where the job is located.
- Employers must keep working papers on file at the worksite for the duration of the minor’s employment.
Permissible Work Hours
Work hour limits vary by age and time of year. During the summer period—defined as June 21 through Labor Day—employers should follow these guidelines:
- Ages 14-15: Up to 40 hours per week, no more than 8 hours per day, between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.
- Ages 16-17: Up to 48 hours per week, no more than 8 hours per day, between 6:00 a.m. and midnight.
Employers must maintain posted work schedules for all minor employees and strictly observe these hour restrictions.
Eligibility Verification
Like all employees, minors must complete the Form I-9 employment eligibility verification process. A parent or guardian must sign the form where required.
Plan Ahead for Compliance
Hiring minors comes with heightened legal obligations under New York’s child labor laws. Employers are encouraged to review hiring procedures in advance to ensure all documentation, work schedules, and practices comply with state requirements.
If you have questions or need assistance with summer employment compliance, please contact Chaim Book at cbook@booklawllp.com or Sheryl Galler at sgaller@booklawllp.com.
