Is Your Boss Deducting Your Breaks Properly?

Tipped Employees: Unlawful Break Deductions

Tipped employees, listen up!

If your employer fails to comply with applicable laws regarding breaks, deductions, or other wage-and-hour requirements, you may be entitled to the full minimum wage rather than the tipped minimum wage. Cathleen Scott, board-certified employment law attorney, explains the rules for meal and rest breaks and the consequences of noncompliance.

Employers may deduct for meal or rest breaks only when permitted by applicable law. Generally, a break must be uninterrupted to qualify as unpaid. If your break is interrupted, cut short, or skipped by your manager, your employer may not be able to deduct that time from your pay.

These rules are especially important for tipped employees. If your employer improperly takes deductions or fails to meet applicable requirements, you may be entitled to the full minimum wage instead of the tipped minimum wage.

What to Do If Your Employer Has Deducted Improperly?

Before drawing conclusions or taking action, consult an employment law attorney. If you believe your breaks are being improperly deducted, seek legal guidance to understand your rights and options.

Scott Law Team represents both employees and employers in employment law matters. Contact our team today to learn how we can help.