Ferraro Vega Employment Lawyers help workers in Tacoma when they face unpaid overtime. There’s a lot of different ways that your employer can either pay you incorrectly, and while most workers are familiar with overtime, there’s also situations where you and others might warrant “double time” pay. There’s no law in Washington that requires double time, but if your employer promises it to you, they have to provide it. If they don’t, we can help you. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Why Should You Get a Lawyer?

Not getting paid what you’ve earned can be incredibly frustrating. While double-time pay isn’t as common as regular overtime, it’s an important part of certain jobs and projects in Tacoma. If your employer isn’t paying you the double-time you’ve earned, having our lawyers on your side can make all the difference.

Here’s how we can help:

  • Clear answers – We’ll explain Washington’s employment laws and show why your employer owes you double-time pay.

  • Strong support – Our team will gather pay stubs, time records, and other evidence to back up your claim.

  • Less stress – We’ll handle the tough conversations and negotiations with your employer for you.

  • Accountability – If needed, we’ll file a complaint or lawsuit to make sure your employer follows the law.

We’re here to help you recover the pay that you’ve earned from your employer, plus any penalties or interest. While it might seem a bit confusing, our team will be there to guide and support your claim from start to finish.

What Can You Do If You’re Being Denied Double-Time Pay?

Dealing with unpaid double-time wages can be frustrating, especially because your employer controls your schedule, how you’re “classified”, and when and how you’re paid. Generally, when you accept a job offer, you’re entering into an agreement (a contract) with your employer, which is simple–you work, and they pay you. Not every employer always follows through though, especially when it comes to extra pay.

Still, if your employer has either promised or led you to believe that you’ll get double-time pay, they have to provide it. When they don’t, you need to take certain steps to set yourself up for a potential claim:

  • Keep detailed records – Track all your hours worked, including overtime and double-time hours, and compare them to your pay stubs. This evidence is crucial for proving any violations.

  • Know your employment status – If you’re an hourly employee, you’re probably non-exempt and eligible for double-time pay. Save any paperwork that confirms this, and keep notes of conversations, emails, or messages that support your claim.

  • Talk to your employer – If you’re missing double-time pay, bring the issue directly to your employer. It could be an honest mistake they’re willing to fix.

If your employer doesn’t resolve the issue, you’ll need solid evidence to build a strong claim. These steps will help you get started, and our experienced team will be there to clear up any questions and guide you through the process of getting the pay you’ve earned.

When Do You Get Double-Time Pay in Tacoma?

Again, there’s no law in Tacoma or Washington that says an employer must provide double-time pay, which is twice your regular hourly wage. But the reality is that some workers qualify for double-time pay, usually in the following situations:

  • If you work more than 12 hours in a single day
  • If you work over 8 hours on the 7th straight day in a week

However, not everyone qualifies for double-time. It depends on how your employer classifies you. Double-time is usually available only to “non-exempt” workers, who are typically hourly employees.

If you’re eligible and your employer has agreed to pay double-time, they’re legally supposed to honor that agreement. Unfortunately, many employers try to avoid paying it by doing things like:

  • Misclassifying you as exempt when they’re actually non-exempt.
  • Failing to explain double-time rules, leaving you unsure of your rights.
  • Making broken promises about double-time pay.
  • Using poor record-keeping practices to deny double-time wages.
  • Skipping double-time and hoping you won’t notice.

Some workers stay silent out of fear of retaliation, but you don’t have to. If you think you’re being shortchanged, it’s important to take action and protect your rights.

What Are Your Options for Unpaid Double-Time Wages?

Unpaid double-time wages mean you’re still getting paid–just not the full amount you’re owed. While this may not leave you struggling financially right away, it’s still wage theft. If your employer thinks they can get away with it, they may continue to cut corners in other ways.

Here’s what you can do to hold your employer accountable under the law:

  • Administrative complaint – Washington State’s Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) enforces labor laws and investigates wage theft. If you file a complaint and they find your employer at fault, they can force them to pay your unpaid double-time wages.
  • Civil lawsuit – If your employer refuses to pay, you can move forward with filing a lawsuit in civil court. With our help, you can recover your unpaid wages, plus any damages.
  • Class action lawsuit – If other employees are missing double-time pay too, you can join a class-action lawsuit. This allows a group of workers to recover unpaid wages together. Many unpaid wage violations happen to more than just one worker, so a class action is a great way to band together and hold employers accountable.

By filing a claim or lawsuit, you could recover:

  • The unpaid double-time wages with interest.
  • Liquidated damages, which could double the amount owed.
  • Reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses.
  • Attorneys’ fees and emotional distress damages.

In Washington, you typically have three years from the date of the unpaid wages to file a claim. If you miss this deadline, you may lose the chance to recover your money. Standing up to your employer takes courage, but with the right help, you can get what you’re owed.

Contact Ferraro Vega Employment Lawyers Today

Ferraro Vega Employment Lawyers is here to protect workers’ rights in Tacoma. If your employer isn’t paying you the double-time wages you’re owed, our experienced team can help. We’ll guide you through your options and stand by your side to hold your employer accountable. Contact us today for a free consultation–no obligation, just the support you need.