When an employer withholds pay, it can create financial stress and raise serious concerns about your rights as a worker. Fortunately, as your Washington, D.C. wage claim lawyers, Eric Siegel Law can help you get the money you’re owed. For over 30 years, our team has assisted clients with employment litigation, wage claims, and even protection against retaliation. Read on to see what happens if your employer withholds your money, and contact us today to get started on your case.
Why Employers Withhold Pay
There are many reasons an employer might fail to pay an employee. Sometimes, it can be the result of payroll errors or administrative delays. In other cases, it may happen because of disputes over hours worked, commissions earned, or deductions from wages. Unfortunately, there are also situations where employers deliberately withhold pay to cut costs or pressure employees to leave their jobs. Even if the reason seems like a simple mistake, it’s important to treat any unpaid wages seriously and address the issue quickly.
Steps You Can Take Right Away
If you notice that your paycheck is missing or incorrect, the first step is to review your pay stub, time records, and any agreements you have with your employer. This will help you confirm whether the amount is truly incorrect. Next, consider reaching out to your supervisor or payroll department to ask for an explanation. In some cases, the issue can be resolved internally without further action.
Legal Protections For Employees
Federal law, including the Fair Labor Standards Act, provides clear rules about how and when employees must be paid. Most states also have their own wage laws that may offer additional protections. As your overtime pay lawyer can explain, these laws cover minimum wage, overtime pay, and deadlines for final paychecks after an employee leaves a job. When an employer withholds pay, they can face penalties and may be required to pay back wages.
Filing A Wage Claim
When an internal resolution isn’t possible, filing a formal wage claim may be the next step. This process involves submitting a complaint to a government agency, such as the Department of Labor or a state labor board. Your unpaid wages lawyer can help you understand what evidence you’ll need to provide, such as time sheets, pay stubs, and communication with your employer.
Protecting Yourself During The Process
It’s natural to worry about how taking action might affect your job. While retaliation is illegal, some employers may still attempt to make things difficult for employees who file complaints. Keeping careful records of your hours worked, pay received, and any interactions related to the dispute is very important. Staying professional in your communications can also help strengthen your case if it becomes necessary to involve outside agencies or pursue legal action.
How We Can Help
At Eric Siegel Law, we’re ready to help you through your next steps – even if you’ve never worked with a lawyer before. We’ll take the time to explain the process of your wage claim, and we’ll also provide you with much-needed support before, during, and after your case. Don’t be afraid to seek the compensation you’re owed. Contact us today, and see how a wage dispute lawyer from our team can help.