Wage theft affects millions of workers every year — and it can be subtle.
From unpaid overtime to denial of rest breaks, wage theft comes in many forms. Consider these real-world examples:
- Samantha, a retail worker, was clocking in early to prep the store but wasn’t paid for it. She later recovered 6 months’ worth of unpaid time with the help of an attorney.
- Carlos, a line cook, was classified as “exempt” but didn’t meet the legal duties test. He regularly worked 60-hour weeks without overtime — and successfully filed a claim to recover lost wages.
- A group of warehouse employees were denied meal breaks for months. They collectively filed a class action suit and received settlement payouts.
If you suspect you’re a victim of wage theft, you’re not alone. Keeping accurate records of your hours and breaks can make a huge difference. Consult a wage and hour specialist to understand your rights and take the first step toward recovery.
