Adverse Effect Wage Rates (AEWR)
Last updated November 28, 2022

These are the minimum rates that must be paid to H-2A workers (and workers performing the same jobs as those H-2A workers) in each state.  The rates may vary due to state/local laws and other factors. If you are unsure of the meaning of the guidance from the U.S. Department of Labor, you should consult your H-2A advisor for guidance.

To see the most recent list of rates, view the table at the bottom of this page.

When should you change the rate?

At this time, WAMS does not automatically switch rates in the middle of a pay period. WAMS does not automatically change the AEWR rate because different companies handle the rate change in different ways depending on their pay schedules and whether or not H-2A employees are present at the time the new rate goes into effect.

You can follow these general guidelines to determine when to change your rate:

• If you currently have no H-2A employees you should change the rate now to prepare for those arriving on your next contract.
• Continue payroll using the current rate until your payroll will include work dates on or after the new effective date.
• If H-2A employees (or domestic employees on an H-2A contract) are being paid for the work week that includes the new effective date:
  • OPTION 1: Split the payroll into 2 checks. Pay the work days before the new effective date as one payroll, then change the rate, and finally run a second payroll for remaining work days.
  • OPTION 2: Pay the highest applicable rate. (Some states may require this option) If the new rate is higher, change the rate now and pay the employees at the new rate. If the new rate is lower, run your payroll as normal and then change the rate for future payrolls.

How to change your AEWR in WAMS...

These steps must be performed before your first payroll after the effective date below  for each WAMS company that employs H-2A workers ...

1. Open your company
2. Click the Payroll menu (in the gray bar at the top of the screen)
3. Click the Payroll Options -> Payroll States menu items
4. Select your state from the list and then click the Edit button.
5. Enter your new rate in the Min Adverse Wage box and then click the Save button
6. Check job rates/minimum rates and update these if needed
7. Check employee rates/minimum rates and update if needed.
   Note: Employee rates can be batch edited by changing all employees at the old rate to the new rate. If you need assistance performing this batch edit, contact us for assistance!