Do you know millions of dollars of unpaid wages go unreported every year? That’s wage theft and it’s illegal. It’s now considered a felony in Rhode Island in some situations, but prosecution depends on employees reporting the problem to authorities and filing lawsuits against employers.
You may not know how to report unpaid wages in Rhode Island, but we’re here to help you do that. Our Providence wage theft lawyers will fight for you to get back the money you earned from your labor.
Here’s how to start the process of reporting unpaid wages in Rhode Island. It may take some time to win your claim, but the outcome could make it well worth the trouble. You could end up with more money than you’re owed if you win your lawsuit.
First Steps to Reporting Unpaid Wages
Rhode Island labor laws require employers to pay employees at regular intervals; they cannot withhold wages except as otherwise permitted by law. This includes hourly wages, salaries, commissions, and more.
Winning a wage complaint starts with documentation. Document all relevant details, such as the hours worked, rate of pay, dates of employment, and any agreements made with your employer regarding compensation. Collect pay stubs, time cards, and any other records of your employment and wages for additional proof.
Before taking formal action, try resolving the issue directly with your employer if possible. Sometimes, unpaid wages can result from misunderstandings or clerical errors that can be corrected internally. You can move to a formal complaint if they deny your claim or retaliate against you.
For a free legal consultation, call (860) 999-9394
File a Wage Complaint With the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training (DLT)
You will need access to a printer and a computer to file the complaint because they only accept complaints by mail. First, visit the Wage Complaints page to download the Nonpayment of Wages Complaint form as a PDF.
Next, fill out the form. The file is a fillable PDF, which means you can fill it out on your computer and print it from there. If there isn’t enough space to explain your situation on the form, you can write extra information on another sheet of paper.
After you’ve filled it out, mail the form to the address at the top of the form. The DLT will process your claim and open an investigation into the matter. They will review your documentation and contact the employer for an explanation. You may wish to hire a member of our team before you mail your document.
Felony Wage Theft in Rhode Island
Starting in 2024, employers who knowingly and willfully fail to pay an employee more than $1,500 in wages can face up to three years in prison and pay fines. This makes wage theft a felony. Such stringent measures underscore the state’s commitment to combating wage theft.
Prosecutors will have the power to pursue employers across state lines to bring them to justice. Recent law changes also keep employers from misclassifying workers as independent contractors. This is another way some employers try to get away with paying less than they should.
What Documentation do I Need?
You will need:
- Your personal information
- Information about your employer
- Your wages and work history with your employer
- Whether an attorney is representing you
- The reasons for your complaint
- Whether you’ve already asked your employer for the money you’re owed.
- Your employment contract, if you have one
- The dates and hours of the wages you’re owed and the amount you’re claiming
- Any additional documentation you have (send a copy so you have the originals)
Click to contact our labor & employment lawyers today
Can I Sue My Employer?
If the issue is not resolved through the DLT or if you are unsatisfied with the outcome, you may consider filing a lawsuit in court. If you win your lawsuit, you’re eligible for up to two times the amount of unpaid wages plus legal costs.
Consulting with an employment lawyer can provide you with specific advice to help you effectively address the situation. Acting promptly is crucial due to the limitations periods applicable to wage claims.
You have three years after the last date you weren’t paid correctly to file your claim according to Rhode Island General Laws section 28-14-19.2. Filing after that point will get your claim dismissed by the court, so you should act as soon as possible.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
Contact a Wage Theft Lawyer for Further Advice
Don’t let your employer get away with wage theft. You have the power to hold them accountable when you report your unpaid wages to the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training and sue your employer.
Take the advice you’ve learned and file your complaint. If you would like assistance with your claim, contact Duddy, Goodwin & Pollard for a free consultation. Our experienced team of employment lawyers will work hard to get you the wages you need and deserve.
Call or text (860) 999-9394 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form