Common Forms of Wage Theft

Many individuals take pride in their work and enjoy the benefits that come with their employment. Being employed not only allows a person to support themselves financially, but it allows them to connect with others and give back to their community. However, it can become a serious problem if employees are not treated fairly in the workplace, including instances of wage theft. Wage theft can greatly impact employees’ lives and directly violate their rights. At Marshall Forman & Schlein, we’re here to help Ohio employees understand wage theft and how an attorney can help you receive the compensation you deserve. 

What Is Wage Theft?

Wage theft occurs when an employer fails to give employees proper compensation or employee benefits that they are legally owed. Every state has laws regarding employee rights and protections. When an employer violates these rights, they have committed a crime. At Marshall Forman & Schlein, we can help represent Ohio employees who have experienced wage theft and advocate for their rights in court. 

What Are Examples of Wage Theft?

Wage theft can occur in varying ways. Here are some common forms of wage theft that can occur in the workplace:

• Refusing to Pay Minimum Wage 

Minimum wage is the lowest income an employer can legally pay employees. Ohio’s minimum wage requirements are $9.30 an hour for non-tipped employees and $4.65 for tipped employees. If an employer is in violation of this law, it is considered wage theft. 

• Not Paying Overtime

Overtime is work that is done after an employee’s contracted working hours. For most companies, it is required that employees are paid more for overtime work. If an employer fails to pay an employee for overtime work properly, or they are forcing an employee to work overtime without pay, wage theft has occurred. 

• Making Illegal Deductions 

Employers are allowed to make certain deductions, oftentimes for health benefits or tax purposes. However, if an employer is making deductions without the employee’s knowledge or for their own benefit, it can be considered wage theft.

• Refusing to Let Employees Keep Tips

Many jobs allow employees to accept tips from customers, even if they’re non-tipped employees. Wage theft can occur if an employer is taking tips away from employees and keeping them for their own profit. In addition, some employers will use the acquired tip money to justify paying under minimum wage. Both of these cases can be considered wage theft. 

What Should I Do if I’ve Experienced Wage Theft?

Oftentimes, an employee will not say anything if they’ve experienced wage theft for fear of potential consequences from their employer. If you’ve experienced wage theft, you deserve justice for your mistreatment. An attorney at Marshall Forman & Schlein LLC. can help you fight for your rights and further explain Ohio’s laws regarding wage theft. Get in touch with us today to discuss the details of your case and determine if you have experienced wage theft. 

Contact a Trusted Ohio Attorney Today

Get in touch with us today to discuss the details of your case and determine if you have experienced wage theft. We are ready to be your legal advocate.