Is It Illegal to Not Pay Overtime?

Overtime occurs when employees work longer hours, and because overtime comes with extra pay, employees are incentivized to take part. When an employee works overtime, they expect to receive more money, but unfortunately, some employers take advantage of their employees and withhold overtime wages.

When an employer withholds wages from their employees, they’re breaking the law. However, not all employees are entitled to overtime pay. It’s essential to understand how overtime policies work and which types of workers qualify. If you qualify for overtime pay and your employer withholds your wages, you can file a claim against them and win back the money denied to you.

You can discuss your situation with a federal unpaid wages lawyer from Snider & Associates, LLC if you want to determine whether you have grounds for a claim. 

The Fair Labor Standard Act

The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) is a federal act that enforces the payment of wages to federal employees, sets the federal minimum wage, and outlines overtime policies. In the FLSA, overtime policies include paying employees one- and one-half times their standard pay rate for any hours worked over forty hours in a single workweek.

Although many employees qualify for overtime pay, there are a handful of employees exempt from overtime pay because they make too much money or because their pay structure or time schedule is unique.

Who’s Exempt from FLSA Coverage?

Executive, administrative, and professional employees who are paid on a salary basis are exempt from overtime pay laws. Independent contractors, outside salespeople, computer specialists making more than $27.63 per hour, newspaper deliverers, seamen, and some seasonal workers are also exempt from overtime pay.  

Contact a Federal Unpaid Wages Attorney

It’s essential to discuss your situation with a federal unpaid wages lawyer from Snider & Associates, LLC to determine whether you’re eligible for overtime pay. If you’re eligible and your employer isn’t paying you the wages you deserve, you should take action by filing a claim.

To speak with a member of our team, fill out the contact form below or call 410-653-9060 to schedule a consultation.