NEW YORK (WENY) -- New York Governor Kathy Hochul put out a reminder on Tuesday, Dec. 17th to New Yorkers earning minimum wage that their paychecks are about to go up. Starting on Jan 1st., New York's minimum wage will increase to $15.50, and $1650 in Long Island, Westchester and New York City. 

“Putting money back in your pockets has been the focus of my first three Budgets, and that includes increasing minimum wage for the lowest earners across the state,” said Hochul in a prepared statement. 

Along with this year's increase, next year it will increase another 50 cents, and starting in 2027, it will increase annually at a rate determined by the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) for the Northeast Region. It's worth noting that does not mean the minimum wage will increase every year, as there are off ramps are available in the event of certain economic conditions. 

“With rising costs of living, this increase will help to lighten the burdens of inflation for New Yorkers while providing businesses with the time needed to adjust," said Hochul. 

Along with letting people know about the pending increase, Hochul's office is reminding any minimum wage workers to contact the State Department of Labor if they do not see an increase in their paychecks. 

“In this current era of inflation and rising costs, every cent counts for all New Yorkers, especially workers who earn minimum wage. By gradually increasing wages for the lowest earners, we are ensuring businesses can adjust to the change while also helping more families make ends meet. I want to thank Governor Hochul and the Legislature for working together to strengthen the paychecks of New Yorkers statewide," said Roberta Reardon, labor commissioner for the New York State Department of Labor. 

You can contact the New York State Department of Labor at 833-910-4378 or visit here.