Working beyond scheduled hours—without pay—often happens quietly in workplaces. It's important to know that unpaid work is illegal under the Fair Labor Standards Act if you're non-exempt. Here's how to handle it. 1. What “Off-the-Clock” Work Means Activities like: Arriving early to prep Staying late to wrap up Checking work emails after hours are all compensable if required or expected. 2. Why It Happens Peer pressure from culture of “always-on” Employers hoping to save money Misunderstanding of classification rules 3. How the Law Protects You Non-exempt workers must be compensated for all time worked. This includes: Regular time Overtime (1.5x rate for above 40 hours a week) Breaks under 20 minutes, training, cleanup time 4. Steps to Take if It’s a Pattern Log all hours, even off-the-clock ones Bring it up with supervisor or HR File a complaint with U.S. Department of Labor Consider joining a class action or working wit...
Tenants in the United States have legal protections that vary by state but share core federal standards. This guide covers the most important aspects of tenant rights. ✅ 1. Right to a Habitable Home Every tenant has the right to a safe, livable space — this includes heating, water, structural integrity, and sanitation. If the landlord fails to maintain these, you may file a habitability complaint . ✅ 2. Right to Privacy Landlords must give reasonable notice (usually 24 hours) before entering your unit, except in emergencies. ✅ 3. Right to Non-Discrimination Under the Fair Housing Act , landlords cannot discriminate based on race, religion, national origin, sex, disability, or family status. ✅ 4. Right to Fair Rent Rent control laws exist in some states and cities (like New York and California). Even in non-regulated areas, landlords must follow lease agreements. ✅ 5. Right to a Written Lease While oral agreements are valid in many states, a written lease provides l...