What type of workers does the term "non-exempt" refer to regarding pay?

The term "non-exempt" specifically refers to employees who are entitled to receive overtime pay for hours worked beyond the standard 40-hour workweek, as defined by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). These employees typically earn an hourly wage and must be paid at least the federal minimum wage.

Non-exempt employees differ from exempt employees, who are usually salaried and do not qualify for overtime pay. Therefore, the main characteristic of non-exempt workers is that they are entitled to receive extra compensation for overtime work, ensuring they are fairly compensated for their time and effort. The emphasis on minimum wage is critical here, as one of the foundational aspects of non-exempt status is that they must always earn at least the minimum wage for their hours worked, which is a protective measure for workers.

While the other concepts may relate to employment classifications in various contexts, the primary and defining feature of non-exempt status is the requirement to be compensated according to minimum wage laws while also being eligible for overtime pay.