Your Boss Refuses to Pay You Overtime: What Can You Do?

July 5, 2023

Your Boss Refuses to Pay You Overtime: What Can You Do?

Unpaid wages can be a source of considerable stress for employees, particularly when it comes to overtime. All employees are entitled to overtime pay in New York, but what happens if your boss refuses to give it to you? Fortunately, there are legal options available that allow you to pursue your unpaid wages. In this article, we will explore some steps you can take to ensure you get your overtime pay.

Know your rights

 The first step towards getting the overtime pay you are entitled to is knowing your rights. In New York state, non-exempt employees are entitled to receive overtime pay of one-and-a-half times their regular rate of pay for every hour worked over 40 hours in a workweek. If your boss is refusing to pay you for your extra hours, they are breaking the law - and you have the right to take action.

Gather evidence


To take legal action against your boss, you will need evidence to support your claim. This means gathering documentation of your hours worked and pay received, as well as any communication you have had with your boss regarding overtime pay. Keep track of when your boss refused to pay you overtime and any excuses they may have offered. The more documentation you have, the stronger your case will be.

Talk to your employer


Before pursuing legal action, it is a good idea to try and resolve the matter with your employer through direct negotiation. In some cases, they may be willing to settle the issue without needing a court case. Arrange a meeting with your employer and calmly explain your concerns. Let them know that you want to resolve the issue in a friendly manner but emphasize the fact that you will escalate the matter if it is not resolved.

Contact an employment lawyer


If negotiations with your employer do not result in a resolution, it is time to contact an employment lawyer. They will help you understand the legal options available to you and take the necessary steps to recover your unpaid wages. At LAWYERFORWORKERS, our lawyers specialize in helping people recover their unpaid wages. We have experience dealing with all aspects of unpaid wages claims, and we can help you recover the overtime pay that you are entitled to.

Pursue legal action


If all else fails, pursuing legal action is the final option available to you. This involves filing a lawsuit against your employer in civil court, where a judge will determine the outcome of the case. Your lawyer will help you prepare your case and represent you in court. The process can be lengthy, but if you have a strong case, you are likely to get the unpaid wages you are owed.
In conclusion, if your boss has refused to pay you overtime, it is important to know your rights. Gather evidence, try to resolve the matter with your employer if possible, and contact a lawyer if necessary. Pursuing legal action may seem daunting, but it is the best way to ensure you receive your unpaid wages. At LAWYERFORWORKERS, we understand how stressful this situation can be, and our lawyers are dedicated to helping you recover the money you are owed. Don't hesitate to contact us if you need assistance with your unpaid wages claim.

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