Sometimes there are not enough hours in the day to get everything done. When you are trying to finish a project at work, it can seem like the time slips through your fingers.
While some workplaces are happy to have people who are willing to put in extra hours to ensure a project gets done, others do not have the budget to support the extra hours. Employers often use phrases like “unapproved overtime” to discourage working overtime.
Here’s what your boss can (and cannot) do about employees who work unapproved hours.
Will I still get paid?
The phrase “unapproved overtime” can make it seem like you will not get paid for the hours you put in. However, in New York, non-exempt employees who work more than 40 hours in a workweek must be paid overtime at one and a half times their regular rate.
Your boss may not be happy that you worked overtime without approval, but that does not mean they cannot pay you for the work once it is complete.
There can be consequences
When you are in an overtime situation, it is essential to keep in mind that there can still be consequences for working unapproved overtime. While your employer must pay you for the hours you worked, there could still be repercussions, such as:
- Verbal or written warnings
- Suspension without pay
- Forfeiture of special privileges like bonuses or reserved parking
When your employer refuses to pay for worked overtime hours, you should seek the help of an experienced attorney who can guide you through what you need to do next.