The federal minimum wage in the United States has served as the standard that businesses and employers must follow when dealing with finances and how the money is distributed. and paid to federal and non-federal employees. The minimum wage essentially set a fixed limit on how little employees can earn and, in doing so, set a limit on the minimum annual wage in the country. Nevertheless, the United States has problems with how the minimum wage is administered and how, when and where it should be increased in order to respond to rising costs of living, rising prices, increasing inequality and, in some cases, weakening the economy. . This debate has taken place recently as Democrats, Republicans and independents have debated whether it could be increased and the consequences and benefits it would bring. Regardless, the federal minimum wage has certainly been an influential aspect of our economy and the functioning of our country. Since its inception, it has benefited the people, given them a base to live on and provided opportunities to those entering or new to the job market. As previously mentioned, the federal minimum wage has been the source of several heated debates, as some advocate for an increase and others do not, and has certainly been the subject of controversy as well. The federal minimum wage has been active for approximately 75 years, having been established and signed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1938 as part of the Fair Labor Standards Act (Sherk, 2013). Although the minimum wage has evolved over time, controversy and opposition surrounding its increase has been constant since its proposal; having been challenged by several states and individuals, ...... middle of paper ...... necessary, not only to keep up with inflation rates, but to help the 10% who are poor and earn minimum wage . An increase will give more money to those who really need it, keep more money circulating, and boost our economy. Not everyone would need this increase, but implementing it will not only increase the value of the minimum wage, but will also help narrow the income gap. This increase would also serve as an incentive to make workers more productive, increase business and investment, and make our economy stronger. Overall, although there is strong opposition from lobbyists and some groups who advocate keeping the minimum wage as is, an increase is definitely needed, even if it is small. This would benefit the American people and the way our country currently operates and would certainly help create a more sustainable and efficient America..