Many workers feel pressured to arrive early, stay late, or answer messages after hours—all without pay. If you’re a non-exempt worker, this is illegal under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
1. What Is “Off-the-Clock” Work?
This includes:
- Checking email at home
- Setting up before your shift
- Cleaning up after you clock out
All of this is considered work and must be paid.
2. Why Employers Do It
- To cut labor costs
- To meet unrealistic deadlines
- To avoid paying overtime
But it’s still illegal.
3. How to Document It
- Keep a personal log of hours worked
- Save emails or texts
- Take screenshots of time-tracking apps
4. What You Can Do
- Raise it with HR
- File a complaint with the Department of Labor
- Consider legal advice
5. Legal Protection
Retaliation (firing you for complaining) is also illegal. If it happens, you can sue.
Final Tip:
Your time is money. Don’t work for free—ever.