Colorado: rules and deadlines at a glance

Every 10 topic we track for Colorado on one page. Open a topic for the details, the law it comes from and how Colorado compares.

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Workers' comp deadlines · Workers' comp benefits · Paid leave programs · Final paycheck rules · Minimum wage · Unemployment benefits · Meal break laws · Tipped minimum wage · Payday frequency · Rest break laws

General information only, not legal, insurance or financial advice. Not affiliated with any government agency. Exceptions can apply; open a topic for the details.

Workers' comp deadlines

Tell your employer	4 working days, in writing
File a claim	2 years from injury

Workers' comp benefits Single detailed source

Waiting period	3 days
Waiting days paid back	After more than 2 weeks
Max weekly benefit (2026)	–

Paid leave programs

State program	Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI)
Status	Paying benefits since 2024

Final paycheck rules Single detailed source

If you are fired	Immediately
If you quit	Next regular payday

Minimum wage Checked on official source

State minimum wage	$15.16
Next change	$15.71 on Jan. 1, 2027

Unemployment benefits Single detailed source

Maximum weekly benefit	$804 (up to $884 for higher earners)
How long it lasts	13 to 26 weeks

Meal break laws Checked on official source

Meal break required	30 minutes when a shift exceeds 5 consecutive hours

Tipped minimum wage Checked on official source

Minimum cash wage	$12.14
Most tips can count	$3.02

Payday frequency Checked on official source

Required frequency	At least monthly

Rest break laws Checked on official source

Paid rest break	Paid 10 minutes per 4 hours worked