What types of wage theft may a worker experience without knowing in Edinburg?

Edinburg, TX – Estimates for wage theft have concluded that American workers lose billions of dollars each year from money that was earned but never actually paid. Wage theft is not always obvious to employees because it comes in forms that are not easy to detect unless their pay is reviewed carefully. Many workers also choose to not push the issue or complain out of fear of retaliation. However, wage theft is illegal and all workers need to be compensated their full pay within a reasonable time of when the work is completed.

Asking for favors before or after a shift

Motivated employees may get into the habit of doing a few things for their boss just before clocking in at the beginning of their shift, or ending their work for the day. Even though this may seem like the worker is required to do this, they also need to be paid for anything done at their employer’s direction.

Changes made by payroll

Some workers can unknowingly have their hours reduced by a person in payroll or human resources after a pay period has ended and their hours have already been recorded. Aside from a few exceptions where there have been mistakes or other obvious problems, no one is allowed to alter the hours that a person has already worked. This includes making changes to avoid paying the person overtime or classifying their overtime pay as regular hours.

Improper calculations of break time

Most breaks are compensated unless they are uninterrupted and for an extended period of time. For example, if a company gives an hour long lunch break, the work does not need to be paid for this hour, but shorter breaks throughout the day are compensated. Anyone who is not paid for their breaks should check with their employer or get legal help if necessary.

Remedies for unpaid wages

The worker should first try to see if their employer will correct the unpaid wage issues without any kind of formal action. Most companies have a human resources or payroll department that should be able to give the person all of their proper wages. However, others may need to contact the Texas Workforce Commission and retain a lawyer to investigate the matter. If the worker is successful they may also be entitled to interest on their outstanding pay and other kinds of damages.

Labor law attorneys in Texas

Moore and Associates is a firm that deals with labor law, sexual harassment, unpaid overtime, minimum wage violations, and discrimination in all parts of Texas. Local clients in Edinburg and other cities can get in touch with the firm to schedule a meeting.

Firm contact info:

Moore & Associates

440 Louisiana Street, Suite 675, Houston, TX 77002

713-222-6775