How much does an H-2A worker earn? Pay, AEWR and deductions
Understand how pay is set on H-2A: AEWR, minimum wage, piece rate, three-fourths guarantee, permitted deductions and reimbursements.
Redação H2A Works Updated on September 19, 2026 8 min read
Pay on H-2A is not a single amount: it varies by state, occupation and job order, and the employer must pay at least the highest of the AEWR, the applicable prevailing wage and the federal, state or local minimum wage. That's why the number that matters is always in the specific job.
Quick answer: read the pay field (basic rate) of the job order. It shows the amount per hour, per day, per week or per piece. Also confirm the guaranteed hours, the permitted deductions and what the employer reimburses.
How the minimum wage is set
On H-2A jobs, the employer must offer and pay at least the highest of:
the AEWR (Adverse Effect Wage Rate), a rate published by the Department of Labor, which varies by state or region and is updated periodically;
the prevailing wage for the occupation, when one applies;
the federal, state or local minimum wage.
The exact amount changes from time to time. Always check the official AEWR page and the job's pay field.
Hourly, daily or by piece
Many jobs pay by the hour. In harvests, piece rate pay is common, for example per box or per bucket harvested. When pay is by piece, the employer must guarantee that, on average over the period, the worker receives at least the required hourly amount. Read how output is calculated and what each unit is worth.
How many hours will I work?
An essential point is the three-fourths guarantee: in general, the employer must offer work for at least three quarters of the hours stated in the contract, measured over periods defined by the program's rules. If weather or demand reduces work, this guarantee exists to protect your income. Check the clause in the job order and keep a copy.
When and how you are paid
Payment must occur regularly, at least every two weeks or twice a month, according to the program's rules.
The employer must deliver a pay stub each period, with hours, amount, deductions and type of payment.
Keep all pay stubs. They help if there is a doubt or complaint.
Deductions and what the employer reimburses
Deductions. Only deductions provided by law and clearly disclosed may be made, and they cannot bring pay below the required minimum.
Meals. When the employer provides meals, there is a maximum daily amount per meal set by the Department of Labor and updated periodically.
Travel and visa. H-2A rules provide for reimbursement of costs such as visa fees and inbound transportation, under the planned conditions and deadlines. Return transportation is also covered when the worker completes the contract or is dismissed early, according to the rules.
Tools and equipment. The employer must provide, at no cost, the tools needed for the work.
The details of deadlines and conditions are in the Department of Labor's Fact Sheet #26.
A simple example (illustrative)
Imagine a job that pays US$16.00 per hour and a week with 45 hours. The gross amount would be 45 × 16 = US$720.00, before taxes and permitted deductions. This is just an example calculation: the real amount depends on your job.
Taxes
H-2A wages are subject to federal income tax withholding and, depending on the state, state taxes. In general, H-2A workers have specific rules for contributions such as Social Security and Medicare. Confirm the current situation with the IRS or an accountant.
Frequently asked questions
Is H-2A pay the same across the country?
No. The AEWR and the minimum wage vary by state and region, and each job order defines the job's amount.
Can the employer pay less than what is published in the job?
No. They must pay at least what the job order states and the minimum required by the program's rule. If there is a difference, keep the receipts and seek official guidance.
Who pays for the ticket and the visa?
The rules provide for reimbursement of inbound transportation costs and visa fees by the employer, under the planned conditions. Confirm the deadlines and what is included in your job.
Where do I report incorrect pay?
To the Wage and Hour Division (WHD) of the Department of Labor, which receives complaints from H-2A workers and offers service with interpreters in several languages. See the link below.
H2A Works does not sell jobs, does not promise hiring and does not guarantee visa approval. Rules may change; confirm important decisions on the official sources indicated in the article.
