Who Pays for Employee Uniforms?

In some workplaces, employers require employees to wear uniforms or dress in a certain way. For instance, a restaurant or cafe may require everyone working the counter or waiting tables to wear dark pants and a white shirt. In other circumstances, a specific uniform is provided. For example, a law enforcement officer wears the uniform of the police.

The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), in most instances, protects employee wages as they relate to the price of uniforms and other employer deductions. This is typically true because the uniform itself is a benefit to the employer, not to the employee, so the expense is the cost of business for the employer. If you have questions about the cost of your Ohio workplace uniform, contact a Columbus wage and hour attorney.

Minimum Wage Also Needs to Be Considered

Of course, there are times when an employer can request an employee pay for the cost of a uniform or an item that is part of an overall dress code. In these circumstances, it is essential the reduction of pay for an item (or other deduction from pay) does not cause an employee’s pay to fall below minimum wage.

It is understood that employees need to maintain an appearance that is conducive to a productive workplace. This often includes appearing clean and professional. For some industries, this includes a dress code or employee uniform. An employee can respect this need while still protecting their wages. If you think your rights are being violated, a legal professional who understands the intricacies of the FLSA can help.

You Have a Right to Your Full Wage

Any situation when an employer does not pay a worker their proper wage for all hours worked including overtime work, there could be the opportunity to file a claim. An employee has a right to their full minimum wage pay or the wage that was agreed to for every hour worked. When unpaid wages are the issue, it is possible the employee can collect those wages. The issue will need to be brought to court. Our firm is experienced with representing employees with recovering their wages, including overtime. Deductions such as those for a uniform may be challenged.

Wage issues can be complex, and it is beneficial to have a Columbus wage and hour attorney representing you. A seasoned unpaid wages and unpaid overtime attorney knows how to assess the situation and determine the best path to recovering funds.

Paying for an unpaid wages lawyer should not be part of a plaintiff’s worry. This is because when a plaintiff is successful in a case involving overtime pay or wage issues, the employer is the one responsible for the attorney fees. If your boss has taken deductions from your paycheck that have resulted in your pay falling under a set wage, you need to fight for your rights.

Are you a victim of unfair deductions from your hard-earned wages? Contact the wage and hour lawyers at Coffman Legal LLC today for a detailed review of your compensation, including overtime pay. We are strong and committed advocates for all Ohio workers and use our experience and knowledge to help you ensure that you are receiving all compensation you have earned. Call 614-949-1181 for a free and confidential consultation.