Are employers allowed to pay a lower rate for piecework?

In Washington, employers are allowed to pay a lower rate for piecework under some circumstances. However, according to the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, employers must ensure that the rate for piecework does not fall below the minimum wage. Additionally, piecework must be reported as such on employees’ timesheets, and employees must be paid in a timely manner for all hours worked. It is important to note that the minimum wage in Washington is not only determined by federal law, but some counties and cities have a higher minimum wage rate which employers must pay. This higher rate may be applicable to piecework wages as well. Employers must also be aware of the “equal pay” laws that are in effect in Washington. “Equal pay” laws require that employers pay employees for similar work, regardless of gender, race or other protected characteristics, the same rate of pay. This means that employees performing the same piecework should receive the same pay rate, regardless of any protected characteristics. It is important for employers to familiarize themselves with and comply with the state and local laws related to the payment of piecework wages. Failure to do so can lead to significant fines and other penalties.

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Are employers allowed to pay a lower rate for piecework?

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