Verifying Prevailing Wage with Your Pay: Protecting Your Rights
As a worker, it’s crucial to ensure that your pay matches the prevailing wage rates required by law. Recently, I experienced an issue where I was underpaid due to a discrepancy in my pay. After contacting HR, I discovered that two wage increases had occurred, which I had not been compensated for. The good news is, once HR reviewed the issue, my pay was adjusted with a $3.85 per hour increase. Here’s how you can verify that you’re being paid the correct prevailing wage.
1. Understand Prevailing Wage Rates
Prevailing wage rates are set by local or federal guidelines, often based on the area you’re working in. These rates can vary depending on the type of work, location, and skill level required. Always make sure to check the current wage rates for your trade to avoid discrepancies in pay.
2. Check for Recent Wage Increases
Wage rates can change periodically, and it’s important to stay informed about any scheduled increases. In my case, I didn’t realize that two increases had taken place. Employers must adjust wages to match these changes, and if they don’t, you could be entitled to back pay.
3. Verify Your Pay Stubs
Regularly review your pay stubs to confirm that your pay aligns with the prevailing wage rate. Check the hours worked and compare your hourly wage to the most recent wage rate available for your trade. If something seems off, don’t hesitate to raise the issue with HR.
4. Contact HR for Clarification
If you notice a discrepancy, contact HR immediately. It’s crucial to explain the issue clearly and reference the specific wage rates and increases you believe apply. HR will typically conduct an investigation and, if necessary, make corrections to your pay.
5. Know Your Rights
Familiarize yourself with your rights under the prevailing wage law. If you believe you’re being underpaid, you have the right to pursue the issue with your employer or even through legal channels, depending on the situation.
Conclusion
Verifying your pay against the prevailing wage is essential for ensuring that you’re compensated fairly. Always check for wage increases and confirm that your employer is following the current guidelines. If you notice discrepancies, don’t hesitate to reach out to HR, as I did, and ensure your pay is corrected. Protecting your pay starts with being proactive.