The federal minimum wage is scheduled to increase from $6.55 to $7.25 this month.   For small businesses this cannot come at a worst time.  Already struggling to cut costs, small businesses will now be forced to increase one of their biggest expenses, payroll.  Many businesses base their hourly rates on the minimum wage.  If an employee with more experience is currently receiving $7.25, after the increase will be boosted up to $8.00 while the newer workers are increased to the mandated rate of $7.25.