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Common Myths Surrounding Unpaid Overtime as a Plumber

The tough economy has many Americans feeling thankful that they have employment. The fear of "rocking the boat" and the risk of losing their jobs is one of the reasons why some plumbers put up with unfair treatment in the workplace.

There are some myths surrounding the issue speaking up about treatment that doesn't abide by the rules of the Fair Labor Standards Act, which also contributes to some employees' hesitation when it comes to voicing their concerns.

Unfortunately, ignoring the unfair treatment can result in thousands of dollars of missed pay over the course of a career - something that no one should have to go through.

Let's take a look at some of the common myths surrounding plumbers and the FLSA.

• Myth: Even though I didn't finish the job until 12:25, I will only get paid until 12:00, since my lunch break is from 12-1pm. Truth: Also true in many other manual-labor industries, plumbers working over lunch should be paid for the work they perform, even if they have to work into their lunch hour. 
• Myth: I'm not entitled to overtime since my boss pays me under the table. Truth: Under the FLSA, your employer is required to keep track of all of your hours worked, and he or she must pay employment tax. While it is still OK for him or her to pay you in cash, you are also entitled to time and a half over 40 hours worked in one week. 
• Myth: Even though I know that my employer isn't keeping track of my hours, nor paying me overtime, I can't file a claim because I didn't keep track of my hours either. Truth: An experienced, fair overtime lawyer can help you prove the number of hours you typically work, and the claim can be based on that number. There are ways to get around the failure to record hours and still be successful in your claim for unpaid overtime.

 

If you are a plumber who is facing any of the above myths, you need information. Contact the Texas fair overtime attorneys at Kennedy Hodges, LLP for your free copy of the Ten Biggest Mistakes that Can Hurt Your Wage and Overtime Claim by calling 888.449.2068. Or fill out our online form to schedule your free case evaluation.