We see it all the time. Hard-working employees who put their time in week after week, only to have their paychecks cut short and thousands of dollars taken out of their pockets each year. Why? - because an employer decided to make profits more important than employees and disregard their workers' rights under the Fair Labor Standards Act.
The fair Houston overtime lawyers at Kennedy Hodges have helped many clients in the refrigeration industry who were facing the same problem. The right to overtime pay is commonly overlooked in this industry-especially when the employer fails to pay the refrigeration repairman for time spent traveling, waiting for customers, or even during required training.
However, there are certain things that you can do to ensure that your paycheck accurately reflects your work as a refrigeration repairman. Check out the following list for protecting your paycheck:
- Education is key. Learning your rights under the Fair Labor Standards Act is one of the best ways to arm yourself against unfair employer practices. If you know what is not allowed under the Act, you will be able to spot unjust employer behavior sooner, or possibly prevent it altogether.
- Document everything. While it is the employer's responsibility under the FLSA to keep proper record of all time worked, it is not a bad idea to keep track of all of your hours, lunch breaks and overtime, in case you need to prove your case later. (Note: Do not hesitate to contact a lawyer for unfair work practices even if you did not keep track of your hours. An attorney can still help you prove your case, even if your hours were not documented by yourself or your employer).
- Don't be afraid to speak up. Even if you are too nervous to approach your employer directly, for fear that you may lose your job, there is always the option of speaking confidentially with an experienced Houston wage lawyer, like the ones in our office. Your job is important, but so is being fairly compensated.
Want to learn more tricks for protecting your paycheck? Order 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 today.
Category: General
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