No one deserves to be cheated out of their hard-earned wages. If your employer has failed to pay you, there are steps you can take to get the money you rightfully deserve.
It can be incredibly frustrating when your employer doesn’t pay you for your work. After all, you’ve spent your time and energy completing the tasks assigned to you, and you rightfully deserve to be compensated for your efforts.
Unfortunately, cases of employers failing to pay their employees are not uncommon. If you find yourself in this situation, there are a few steps you can take to get the pay you deserve. Read on to learn more.
Step 1: Talk to Your Employer
Your first step should always be to try and resolve the issue directly with your employer. After all, there may be a perfectly good reason why you haven’t been paid.
Maybe there was an error in your direct deposit information, or perhaps your employer is experiencing financial difficulties. Whatever the case, it’s always best to start by discussing the issue with your boss or HR department.
They may not be able to give you a definite answer right away, but at least you’ll know they’re aware of the problem and working on a solution.
They can also give you a specific timeline for when you can expect to be paid. If your employer is honest and upfront with you, it will be easier to trust that they’re working to rectify the situation.
Step 2: Submit a Written Complaint
If talking to your boss doesn’t result in you getting paid, then your next step is to submit a written complaint to upper management. This formal complaint will state the nature of the problem and what actions you expect to be taken to rectify the situation.
Be sure to keep a copy of this complaint for your own records. Your complaint should include:
- Your name, contact information, and employee ID number
- The dates of missed pay periods
- The amount of money you are owed
- Any relevant supporting documentation (time sheets, payslips, etc.)
If you’re unsure how to format your complaint, you can find templates online or contact your local labor board for assistance.
Step 3: File a Claim with Your Local Labor Board
If speaking with your employer and submitting a written complaint doesn’t get results, then your next step is to file a claim with your local labor board. This is a government organization that investigates cases of wage theft and can help you get the pay you’re owed.
To file a claim, you’ll need to fill out a complaint form and submit it to your local labor board. Once your claim is filed, an investigator will be assigned to your case and will reach out to you to discuss the next steps.
Step 4: Consider Hiring an Attorney
If you’re still not getting anywhere and you’re confident that your employer is intentionally withholding your pay, you may consider hiring an attorney.
An experienced employment lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and get the compensation you deserve.
Of course, hiring an attorney is a big decision, and it’s not something you should do lightly. If you decide to go this route, be sure to do your research and only work with a reputable lawyer who has experience handling cases like yours.
Step 5: File a Lawsuit
If all else fails, you may need to file a lawsuit against your employer to get the pay you’re owed. This is typically a last resort option, but it may be necessary if your employer refuses to cooperate.
To file a lawsuit, you’ll need to fill out a complaint form and submit it to your local court. Once your lawsuit is filed, a judge will hear your case and decide whether or not you’re owed any money.
If the judge rules in your favor, they may order your employer to pay you the money you’re owed plus interest and legal fees.
Summary
No one deserves to be cheated out of their hard-earned wages. If your employer has failed to pay you, there are steps you can take to get the money you rightfully deserve.
You can file a complaint with the Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division, contact an experienced employment attorney, or file a claim in small claims court.
Acting will ensure you get your earned pay and send a message that wage theft will not be tolerated.
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