Most of today’s labor force isn’t sure if they’re getting the benefits they’re entitled to. According to the Harvard Business Review, two-thirds of employees believe they don’t get the compensation they deserve. That means there’s a lot of confusion about what benefits you’re legally entitled to and how you can get them.
There are a few key things you should know about compensation. Understanding this area’s ins and outs can help ensure you’re getting what you’re supposed to. Here are a few fundamental rights every employee has when it comes to compensation.
You’re entitled to get paid for all the work you do.
Unpaid overtime pay is rising, with one in ten employees working more than 20 hours a week. This figure doesn’t even include the extra time many people spend working from home in the evenings and on weekends. However, this trend is not only illegal; it’s also costing workers billions of dollars in lost wages every year.
If you’re putting in extra time at the office, ensure you’re getting paid. You have the right to overtime pay, and if your employer isn’t giving it to you, you can file a complaint with the Department of Labor.
According to the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), most workers are entitled to time-and-a-half pay for any hours worked over 40 a week. There are some exceptions to this rule, though. If you’re exempt from the FLSA, you may not be eligible for overtime pay. So, knowing your status is key.
You have the right to ask for a raise.
If you’re putting in extra effort at work and not getting fairly compensated, it may be time to talk with your boss about a raise. Many people are afraid to ask for more money, but if you don’t, you could miss out on earnings you’ve rightfully earned.
When asking for a raise, be sure to back up your request with specific examples of your successes and how you’ve contributed to the company. If your employer cannot give you a raise immediately, ask if there’s room for negotiation in other areas, such as additional paid vacation days.
Showing your eagerness to stay with the company and receive more responsibility can help your case when asking for a raise. But if you don’t receive the answer you want, it may be time to start looking for a new job willing to pay you what you’re worth.
You’re entitled to get paid in case of an injury.
A work-related injury can sideline you from your job and leave you with expensive hospital bills. This part is where your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance comes in.
If you get injured on the job, you should immediately notify your employer and file a workers’ compensation claim. Your employer must provide you with medical treatment and income replacement benefits while you’re out of work. This way, you can focus on your recovery without worrying about how you’ll pay the bills.
Workers’ compensation laws vary from state to state, so it’s important to know what’s available to you. But in some cases, an employer may try to deny negligence on their part to avoid shouldering the costs. If this happens to you, it’s best to get help from a personal injury lawyer. These professionals know how to bring you the benefits you’re legally entitled to. In doing so, you can be sure that your case gets handled fairly.
You should get paid for unjust termination.
Sometimes, an employer may try to fire an employee to avoid paying them severance or vacation pay they’re legally entitled to. But unless you’re an at-will employee, your employer cannot fire you without just cause. You may have a case for wrongful termination if you’ve been let go without a valid reason.
If you think you’ve been wrongfully terminated, acting fast is essential. You usually only have a limited time to file a claim, so it’s best to speak with an attorney as soon as possible. They can help determine if you have a case and how to proceed with your claim. With this, you can get the justice and compensation you deserve.
No one should have to work without getting paid for what they’re owed. Knowing your rights is the first step in ensuring you get the compensation you deserve. So, if you feel like you’re not being treated fairly at work, don’t hesitate to speak up or seek legal help. Doing so could make all the difference in getting the earnings you’ve worked hard for. With the above in mind, you can be confident in asserting your rights and getting the compensation you’re entitled to.
