Can my boss refuse to pay me?

I worked at a small business for only three weeks. I was fired for not coming into work on day I was never scheduled for. It was up in the air as to wether I would take on some days for another employee. Nothing was finalized or even written down and he decided to fire me for not showing up on one of the days only previously discussed. That aside I went in to pick up my last check that would would be a small amount but one I really need and my ex-boss told me was choosing not to pay me. I pressed for a reason but he just said he already talked to an attorney if I want to persue it. I dont undertand him treating me so poorly, it has become a nightmare. I appreciate any help or info.

hr4me

File a claim for unpaid wages with the wage and labor commission.

lil southern girl

He owes you for the time you worked, period. The problem is, since you only worked a few weeks, all of the money owed to you is nowhere near enough to hire an attorney to do something about it for you, and he knows this, and figures you will drop it.

If your state does not have a department that deals with such problems, contact the US Dept. of Labor Wage and Hour Division: http://www.dol.gov/esa/regs/compliance/whd/mwposter_PF.htm

It may take forever for results, but at least you will get the message across that he cannot do this to you or others.

drahts4

As a business owner myself, wages must be paid for hours worked. Labor laws will protect you. You will need to file a complaint. Hard to believe he is trying not to pay. Keep good records of hours worked with dates and reason he gave for letting you go, You probably also qualify for unemployment benifits if he let you go.

leysarob

No. He has to pay you. It's the law -- all employees must be paid for all hours worked.

He's lying about the attorney. You can file a claim with your state's Department of Labor for nonpayment of wages. You could also take him to small claims court.

Lawyer

Look up the phone number of a U.S. Dept of Labor - Wage and Hour Division. If you can't find one where you live, look in a larger city. Call them, be ready to hold for 1/2 hour or so and tell them your story. They WILL force your employer to pay you. They often padlock doors of businesses that refuse to pay. I know this for sure.

Alan K

First, I doubt that your boss would be stupid enough to consult an attorney over a matter such as this unless he prefers to pay $300/per hour rates to your last check. He's lying.

Second, you have enough here to file a complaint with your local or state labor board to compel him to comply. Labor laws are very liberal and geared toward protecting the employee. I would make an appointment and discuss the points of your situation and let them tell you whether they can do anything for you.

shipwreck

You keep asking the same question the answer is he must pay your so make him.

Carl

I would go to your state employment office. They will help you. Or at least give you some advice! The employer owes you for your time.

frak1a12345

You will probably have to go to your state's labor board. In general, they take a dim view of businesses that don't pay their employees.

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