If you have unpaid wages, it goes without saying that you want to recover back pay as soon as possible. Letting your employer get away with this should never cross your mind, as it will impact your employment and finances in a variety of ways.
The first step you should take is to discuss your situation with your human resources department. Let them know that you’re tracking your unpaid wages and that you’re seeking a resolution in the near future.
If you’re unable to work things out, it’s time to consider your legal rights. The Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division (WHD) responsible for enforcing the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)
By contacting the WHD and providing the required information, the agency will investigate your claim through the following measures:
- Contacting your company to determine exactly what’s going on
- Examining records associated with the company and its employees, such as payroll records and time cards
- Interviewing specific employees to verify records and learn more about internal processes
- Informing the employer of any violations that occurred and the steps they must take to rectify the situation
While it’s never fun to take this action against an employer, it’s better than the alternative of missing out on payments that are due to you.
Since a claim of unpaid wages can lead to a standoff between you and your employer, it never hurts to have an experienced legal team on your side. This goes a long way in ensuring that you have someone watching out for you every step of the way.
