If you think your boss or former job owes you money, it can be very stressful. Not only is it difficult to talk to them about it, but you also need that money to pay bills. Like right now.
In this post, you will read some tips about how to claim unpaid wages from your job or former boss.
Tips for Claiming Unpaid Wages
1. Talk to a Good Attorney
The very first thing you should do if you are owed money from your job is to talk to a good employment attorney. Do a Google search for: “[Your city] employment attorney.” For example, if you live in Dallas, search for “Dallas employment attorney” or “Dallas labor attorney.”
Dozens of results will pop up. Look for a well-rated attorney that helps with employment issues and give their firm a call.
As a rule, almost any attorney will give you a free consultation. This means you can call them, or set up a meeting with them, to tell them about your situation and learn if they can help. They will also tell you if they think you have a case or not (if you can get your money or not).
Here’s why attorneys are so important in these wage claim situations:
- Your boss or job will take you more seriously if you have an attorney at your side
- Your attorney will fight for unpaid wages on your behalf
- You usually don’t have to pay an attorney unless they win your case
- Normal people don’t understand employment law, but attorneys do
At the end of the day, an attorney will only take your case if they think they can win (and earn money from it). So it’s a good starting point.
But, you don’t have to work with an attorney, either. Also, don’t feel pressured into signing a contract. It’s recommended to call around for a couple of different attorneys. If any of them are pushy, or give you a bad vibe, then it’s time to move on.
This world has no shortage of attorneys, so take your time and find someone that is well-rated, that you have a good feeling about, that you can trust.
File a Claim With Your Local Agency
Most cities have a Department of Labor that is in charge of all employment matters, including wage payments. These agencies are free to call and talk to, and they are also usually free to file a case with if you are owed money.
The downside to working with a local agency is that they are tax-payer funded, which means that they don’t take sides in a claim. Whereas your attorney will take your side and fight for your money, state agencies don’t take sides.
Stand Up For Yourself
One of the hardest things to do when you are owed money from your job is asking your boss about it. If your company has a Human Resources department, that would be a good place to turn.
Ask questions and explain why you think you are owed money. There might even be an accounting error. You never know unless you stand up for yourself and ask.
If your boss decides to be dishonest, and not pay you money that you are owed, then you know its time to take the next steps. You should also try to find a new job that pays fairly.
