Most employees do not have trouble getting paid. After all, employers can’t expect employees to show up if they don’t turn over their wages. That doesn’t mean, however, that all employees are being paid properly. Many may be the victims of wage theft without realizing it.
How wage theft happens
Wage theft is a form of fraud. Wage theft occurs when employers do not pay workers according to the law. So, how does wage theft happen without employees noticing? While you may have a unique case, there are some common examples that can help you know what to watch out for. Wage theft could include issues like:
- Getting less than minimum wage.
- Working overtime and then only getting paid your standard wage for that time.
- Not getting tips when you were told you would receive them and you earned them.
- Getting paid less than you were owed with a promise to “make up the difference” in the future.
- Being told to take extra time off in the future to make up for extra money that you were never paid.
- Requiring off-the-clock work.
- Putting in your two-weeks’ notice and then never being given your final paycheck after you leave.
No matter how it occurs, wage theft is both frustrating and illegal. You deserve the money that you have earned. You don’t deserve unfair treatment as an employee. When your rights are violated, it is critical for you to know exactly what legal steps you can take to protect your interests. An attorney can show you what to do next.