Every worker deserves full and fair compensation for their work, but unfortunately not every worker receives it. Whether due to innocent mistakes or illegal conduct by employers, too many people in New York are underpaid or not paid at all.
Which industries are prone to wage theft?
Some people are more susceptible to wage theft and other violations for reasons such as the nature of work or legal requirements. Industries with high wage theft reports include the following:
- Restaurants and hospitality
- Agricultural workers
- Construction
- Domestic occupations
- Hospitals
- and transportation
If you work in one of the above occupations, pay close attention to your wage statements or consult with an attorney to determine if there are any irregularities with your compensation.
Why are these industries prone to wage theft?
Certain industries are more susceptible to wage violations because of the nature of the jobs and the types of people who fill these roles. For instance, workers may be more vulnerable to wage theft because they are:
- Seasonal workers
- Immigrants
- Young and inexperienced
- Too afraid of losing their job
Employers might exploit such workers by withholding regular wages, tips, and overtime pay. They may do this through unlawful practices such as misclassifying workers or failing to accurately notify workers of their rights. How can you protect yourself from wage theft?
If you work in these or similar industries, keep your own detailed records of your work hours, your compensation,, and any correspondence with your employer. And if you notice any irregularities or think you may be the victim of wage theft, contact an attorney to discuss your options.
Further, rather than assume you have no options or evidence to support a wage theft claim, you should discuss your case with a legal representative to understand your options.
