Wage theft is a widespread problem that crosses industries across California and the entire country.
What is Wage Theft?
Wage theft is when an employer fails to pay their employee the wages they are legally due, a violation of employment law that is a deep-rooted issue causing severe harm to millions of California workers every year.
What If My California Employer Doesn't Pay Me?
If your California employer isn't paying you the wages you've earned, they are violating the law. Withholding an employee's wages is illegal. However, many employers get away with it by pressuring their workers to keep quiet for fear of workplace retaliation and wrongful termination.
What To Do If You Are a Victim of Wage Theft?
If you are not compensated for your work, the first step is to make sure you talk to your employer about the problem. Sometimes, the failure to provide appropriate compensation to an employee is a solitary mistake or even a glitch in the digital payroll system. Raising the issue with your employer could rectify the problem; they simply need the opportunity to correct it. If the issue is not addressed when you notify your employer that you have not been paid, or if your employer or supervisor ignores the situation, the next step is to inform your company's human resources department or manager.
Make a Record of Any Instances of Wage Theft
If you are a victim of wage theft, and notifying your employer of the situation does not alleviate the problem, make sure you keep a record of all interactions and communications with your employer regarding the wage theft. If you have not been provided with a detailed breakdown of your hours worked, and wages earned, request it from your employer, including records of any commissions or reimbursements. You can also request a detailed accounting of how your pay is calculated. If your employer refuses to provide information regarding your salary, wages or calculating your income, make sure to document the refusal. Keep any documents related to the alleged wage theft in a safe place outside the workplace.
Seek Out an Experienced Wage and Hour Attorney
Wage theft is a serious violation of employment law; working with an experienced local wage and hour attorney can significantly increase your chances of resolving the situation successfully. Reach out to a lawyer early in the process to obtain advice on how to protect your rights best as you file a California wage and hour lawsuit.
If you suspect you are a wage theft victim and need help protecting your rights, contact Moss Bollinger, Sherman Oaks, California employment law attorney. He's dedicated to protecting and asserting the rights of his clients. Call 866-942-7974 today for a free consultation or contact us online.