Question 1

How is a wage and hour claim calculated?

Accepted Answer

You are owed the full amount of unpaid wages plus, under most state and federal law, liquidated damages equal to the unpaid amount — effectively doubling your recovery. Many states also require employers to pay your attorney's fees, and willful violations can trigger additional civil penalties.

Question 2

What types of wage violations are most common?

Accepted Answer

Common violations include: failure to pay overtime (1.5x for hours over 40/week), employee misclassification as independent contractors, off-the-clock work, illegal tip pooling, minimum wage violations, failure to provide meal and rest breaks, and improper deductions from paychecks.

Question 3

How long do I have to file a wage claim?

Accepted Answer

In Illinois, you have 3 years from the date of the incident to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline permanently bars your right to recover — act promptly and consult an attorney before the deadline approaches.

Question 4

Can I file a wage claim if I still work for the company?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Retaliation for asserting wage rights is illegal under federal and state law. You can file with your state labor board, the U.S. Department of Labor's Wage and Hour Division, or hire a private employment attorney. Many wage attorneys handle these cases on contingency with no upfront cost.

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