Introduction

OvertimeScams.us lists the most common overtime and Wage-and-Hour abuses, categorized by job title, description, and industry.  Overtime pay for more than forty (40) hours per week is required under federal law.  This law, called the Fair Labor Standards Act, establishes a uniform minimum wage and requires employers to keep accurate records of hours worked and pay a premium rate for all hours worked over forty (40) in a week.  For a more in-depth discussion of the FLSA, visit OvertimePayLaw.us.

Some businesses abuse or fail to meet their legal obligation to pay overtime.  Problems arise because there are many complicated exemptions and exceptions to overtime-pay law.  Many businesses violate federal law without intending to underpay.  Other businesses choose to take advantage of their employees and their lack of knowledge of federal law.  Through creative scams, employers have successfully cheated employees out of money they are due.  Fortunately, through the efforts of federal and state authorities and lawyers, many of these scams have been identified and disputed, often resulting in additional pay due employees.

While it is not possible to list every imaginable scam or scheme, we have listed the most common below. In addition, we have listed the top four everyday employer slip-ups.  Other scams and schemes are categorized below by job title, description, and industry.  As you read many of the scams and schemes, please remember that every job description, title, and industry is different.  Please consider obtaining a lawyer's opinion for your particular situation.