When you work, you expect to receive a fair wage. This amount is determined when you are hired and may be incrementally increased for the duration of your employment.
While this is the expectation, it’s not always how things work out. More and more California workers are becoming victims of wage theft. While some workers don’t receive what they are owed due to simple mistakes their employer can fix, in other situations, workers are intentionally paid less or cheated out of what they are owed. Knowing the most common causes of wage theft in California will help you understand if you have been a victim.
Not calculating overtime pay correctly
In California, there are strict laws related to overtime pay. Unfortunately, some employers miscalculate the overtime pay or even falsify the hours an employee worked to reduce what they receive.
Not providing or compensating for rest and meal breaks
Rest and meal breaks are also required by law in California. If employers don’t provide the breaks and stay compliant, an employee should be paid for them.
Misclassification of employees
If you are promoted to a salaried position, it may mean you are considered “exempt” from receiving overtime pay. However, sometimes, employers do this just to avoid paying overtime. Some employers may also misclassify their workers as independent contractors, which means they aren’t eligible for overtime pay.
Are you a victim of wage theft?
If you believe you are a victim of wage theft, you have legal rights. You should collect your pay stubs and other information about when and how long you worked. You can use this information to prove that the theft occurred. Knowing the most common causes of wage theft will also help you determine if you have been a victim.