In today’s economy, many people are working two or three jobs to afford their living expenses. Employers have a duty to pay their employees for the work they do. Anything less not only jeopardizes an employee’s finances but may be against the law.
Wage theft in Idaho is a serious issue. Employees could pursue their employer if they suspect they have become a victim of wage theft. Here are a few common examples of wage theft:
Unpaid overtime wages
Employees may work more than their usual work hours. Not only would employees who work more hours be given their normal pay but they may be eligible for overtime pay. In Idaho, employees are eligible for overtime pay if they work more than 40 hours in a work week. The overtime pay rate is calculated as 1.5 times an employee’s typical wage.
If an employer does not pay their employees for working overtime, then they could be stealing their employees’ wages. One way employers may try to avoid paying their employees overtime is by asking them to work off the clock. Even if an employer agrees to work off the clock, they may be entitled to overtime pay.
Misclassification
Another way employers steal wages from their employees is by misclassifying them. Employees have several classifications. Nonexempt employees have a right to overtime pay. However, an employer may classify an employee as exempt to avoid paying them for overtime work.
An employer could also misclassify an employee as a contractor. As a result, the employee may be unfairly denied overtime pay, minimum wage and other benefits.
It is important to be aware of the legal consequences of wage theft and your options if you’ve been victimized. Legal guidance can help.
