How to Handle Your Pay Being Withheld at Work

It’s payday, but your check is missing. Instead of your hard-earned wages, you get a letter stating that your paycheck is being withheld. While there are many reasons that your company might withhold your pay, only a handful are fair and legal. Here are four strategies to deal with your pay being withheld at work.

Discuss the Issue With Your Supervisor

The first step to resolve your withheld wages and get the pay you’re owed is speaking with your supervisor. He or she can inform you of why your wages are being withheld, let you know when you can expect to be paid and address your grievances with the higher-ups. Your supervisor may have little or no control over the situation, so try to be polite and understanding in your conversation with him or her.

Keep Track of Everything

When you’re involved in any type of workplace dispute, it’s important to keep track of all the details and evidence. Make a log of all the money owed to you and the reasons your supervisor provided as to why it’s being withheld. Save or print any relevant emails in case they get deleted. Consider asking permission to record relevant conversations with your supervisor, human relations or the finance department.

Obtain Legal Counsel

If your efforts to get your withheld wages through company channels have been unsuccessful, you may need to seek legal counsel. Experts from local law firm services can help inform you of your rights, attempt to reach a settlement with your employer or take the company to court if necessary. Employers will often back down and agree to pay your withheld wages in a prompt manner once you have a lawyer on your side.

Go to Your Supervisor’s Boss

Another option when all else fails is to go higher on the company food chain by scheduling a meeting with your supervisor’s boss. He or she may have the power to resolve your withheld wages or to take your concerns to the owner or CEO. This is especially important if you are considering taking legal action in order to get your wages, as this will give the company a chance to rectify the situation before things escalate into a costly court process.

Keep in mind that if your pay was being withheld illegally, you may be entitled to additional funds to cover damages like late fees and loan interest plus legal fees. If your case goes to court, don’t be afraid to ask for everything you’re due.

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