What are the rights of employees with respect to unpaid wages?
Employees in Washington have certain rights with respect to unpaid wages. These rights are protected under state and federal laws. Under the Washington Minimum Wage Act, employers must pay employees at least the current state minimum wage for all hours worked. In addition, employers must also pay employees any additional wages earned over the minimum wage rate. If wages remain unpaid, employees may be able to file a claim with the Washington Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) to recover wages. Employees may also be entitled to unpaid wages under the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). This law is responsible for making sure employees are paid the federal minimum wage and that employees are paid for overtime hours worked. The FLSA also ensures that employees are paid their final paycheck when they leave a job. If wages remain unpaid, employees may be able to file a claim with the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) to recover unpaid wages. Employees in Washington may also be able to file a lawsuit against their employer to recover wages. Depending on the case, employees may be able to recover not only the unpaid wages, but also interest and punitive damages. Employees should consult with an attorney to determine the best course of action in their case. Overall, employees in Washington have certain rights with respect to unpaid wages. Employees may be able to file a claim or lawsuit to recover unpaid wages, as well as interest and/or damages. It is important for employees to understand their rights and ensure they are getting paid what they are owed.
Related FAQs
What are the rights of employees who are members of a religious organization?What are the disability/bereavement rights of an employee?
What is privacy in the workplace?
What is the WARN act?
What are my rights if my employer withholds my final wages?
When is a company employee considered exempt?
How do I file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)?
What rights do employees have under employment law?
What is the difference between a non-compete and a non-disclosure agreement?
Are employers allowed to require employees to sign an arbitration agreement?
Related Blog Posts
Employment Law Overview: What Employers Need to Know - July 31, 2023Understanding Compensable Time in Employment Law - August 7, 2023
Minimum Wage Standards in Employment Law: What Employers Need to Understand - August 14, 2023
An Overview of Unemployment Benefits and Related Employment Laws - August 21, 2023
Common Mistakes Employers Make in Employment Law - August 28, 2023