COMMON OVERTIME PAY QUESTIONS

What is considered overtime?

Overtime is when an employee works over 40 hours during a defined work week.

How much is overtime?

Overtime pay is time-and-a-half of your hourly wage. For example, if you make $20 an hour, your overtime would be $30 an hour.

Can you still get overtime if you are salary?

Although the common misconception is that salaried employees don’t get overtime, it is not always the case. The best way to determine if you are entitled to back wages is to ask an employment attorney.

If I have changed jobs, can I still get back wages from my previous employer?

Yes, employees can still claim back wages even though they no longer work for the company in question. Employees have the right to claim for overtime pay for up to three years after the violations occurred; however, employment attorneys recommend that you file a claim as soon as possible.

How do I know my claim is worth the effort of filing?

The law tends to favor employees who have been denied overtime, thus, the effort is most likely worth the benefit. You could receive your overtime pay for the past 2-3 years while also getting an equal amount in “liquidated damages.” In addition, the employer must also pay your attorney fees if there has been a wage violation!

Should your employer have a wage violation and must cover the costs of your attorney fees, there is no reason not to hire an employment lawyer. This will ensure that you are aware of what you’re legally entitled to and are treated fairly throughout your claim.