Houston, TX – Some workers may have to deal with unpaid wage issues even if their employer is not intentionally trying to underpay them. There are various administrative problems such as issues with payroll software or incorrect entry of hours that can result in a worker not being paid their proper salary. The employer needs to remedy these problems as soon as they are aware of the issue, otherwise the worker can take legal action. 

Improper deductions from a paycheck

All workers should review their pay stubs to ensure that all deductions appear to be necessary and legitimate. It is possible that the payroll department is illegally deducting too much money for tax, or making other deductions that do not belong on the pay statement at all. While this may be a simple error in the company’s payroll software, it should still be corrected to ensure proper pay. 

Computer problems

Most companies use some kind of automated system to handle all of their payroll applications. While this can be an efficient way to save time, computer programs are subject to various kinds of glitches and errors. These problems can happen suddenly even if a worker has been paid correctly for a long time, so it is important for employees to review all of their pay statements. 

Cash flow issues

There are times when a business is struggling and they simply may not have enough money to give all of their workers their proper pay. However, writing a check that cannot be cashed is technically illegal, and the business can face various forms of serious consequences for doing so. If a worker is not being paid because of a failing business, they should first discuss the problem with their employer immediately, then report the problem to a local labor board or commission and speak with an attorney if necessary. 

The law and unpaid wage claims

There are various federal and state laws that require proper payment of workers. Even if there is an administrative error or honest mistake, the employer still needs to correct the problem as soon as possible after it is reported or found. If this is not done in a timely manner, the workplace may be investigated for wage theft issues or the affected worker can retain a lawyer and file a case to be paid their back wages plus interest and damages. Various labor boards that handle wage theft issues can also issue fines or even criminal charges if the problem is serious enough. 

Consulting with a labor attorney in the Houston area

Moore and Associates is a firm that helps people in Texas resolve their workplace issues. Anyone who is dealing with a situation that may possibly be wage theft can contact the firm to get more information about receiving proper pay. 

Firm contact info:

Moore & Associates

440 Louisiana Street, Suite 675, Houston, TX 77002

713-222-6775

www.mooreandassociates.net