Work life can be a lot like our personal lives – sometimes it’s pretty steady, while other times there is a lot to handle. But if that stressful period is never-ending at work, chances are you’re putting in a lot of late hours and skipping meals to keep up. In this case, we really hope you are receiving the compensation you deserve.
Are you getting overtime pay? Is your employer paying you for those breaks you have missed due to meetings or deadlines? These are questions we’d like you to help you get the answers to. But first, let’s take a look at the most popular signs that indicate your employer isn’t paying you fairly.
You’re Not Allowed to Clock-In
This is a sneaky trick that some employers use to get out of paying their employees for all time worked. If you’re not allowed to clock in at the time that your employer requires you to be at work, then they are taking advantage of you. Sometimes employers will tell workers that they are not needed, or they need to put on their uniform on the premises, but can’t clock in until they are fully dressed. You should be paid for this time and can seek compensation.
You’re Not Being Compensated for Overtime
It’s expected that you’ll occasionally stay late to meet a deadline or finish up a demanding task. But if you’re consistently working over 40 hours a week, you should have a talk with your employer. Laws vary by state, but the common practice is to pay non-exempt workers time and a half when they work overtime. California law requires employers to follow this practice when their workers put in the extra hours.
While many salaried employees, volunteers, and contract workers are often classified as exempt from receiving overtime, there are certain exceptions. For example, many workers in high tech positions and managers are salaried, but after an analysis of their day-to-day job duties it is often discovered that they have been misclassified as exempt from overtime pay. The Carter Law Firm can help you determine whether you have been misclassified so you can start receiving the right compensation.
You Never Have Time for Lunch
If you rarely have time to take a break or lunch, your company could be violating your rights. Lunch should not be a luxury—it’s actually required by law after you work a certain amount of hours. According to California Law, you are entitled to a 30-minute meal break if you work more than 5 hours in a workday and 10-minute breaks for every 4 hours you work. If your work prohibits you from taking these breaks, your employer is required to compensate you.
Follow your intuition. If you feel like you’re being taken advantage of, connect with the Carter Law Firm. We would love to hear your story and help you hold your employer accountable for unfair treatment.
