Today, many employees work long hours without receiving overtime pay. Unfortunately, this issue is common among countless workers who are unaware of their rights to fair compensation.
If you’re consistently putting in extra hours without seeing a bump in your paycheck, it’s time to ask yourself: am I being shortchanged? This short blog discusses overtime pay in Massachusetts and outlines those who are exempt from this benefit. With this information, you can determine if you need to take action to claim the fair compensation you’re owed.
Who can receive overtime pay?
If you get paid by the hour or receive a salary, you probably have a right to overtime pay. However, not every job has to pay overtime. Let’s break it down so it’s easy to understand.
If your job follows overtime laws, you should get extra pay when working more than 40 hours a week. This additional pay is 1.5 times your usual hourly rate. That said, bonuses and commissions from sales usually don’t count toward your regular hourly rate.
Some jobs are exempt from both minimum wage and overtime pay laws. Employers need to check the exact rules for these exemptions. Fortunately, you can get more details from the Massachusetts Department of Labor Standards (DLS).
Here are some examples of jobs that are exempt from minimum wage and overtime pay:
- Executives, administrators and professionals, including teachers and school administrators.
- Outside sales employees and specific computer-related jobs.
- Workers at seasonal amusement parks or recreational facilities.
- Employees at small newspapers, seamen on foreign vessels and fishing industry workers.
- Farmworkers with limited hours and casual babysitters.
Understanding your rights regarding overtime pay can help ensure you receive fair compensation. If you’re unsure about your situation, checking with the DLS can be helpful.
Don’t miss out on overtime pay
If you suspect you’re owed overtime pay, consider consulting an attorney to help you establish a case. A legal professional can review your employment contract, analyze your work hours and determine if you have a valid claim. They can also explain the process of filing a complaint with the proper agencies or pursuing a lawsuit against your employer.
