If your employer in Florida is not paying you the minimum wage or overtime, you have several options for recourse.
First, you can file a complaint with the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) or the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). The DEO's Division of Workforce Services investigates claims of unpaid wages, and the DOL's Wage and Hour Division enforces federal labor laws, such as the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). You can file a complaint with the DEO or DOL either in person, online or by mail.
Second, you can also bring a private action against your employer in court. You may be entitled to collect unpaid wages, including back pay, interest, and attorney's fees. In a private action, you may recover double the amount of unpaid wages as damages.
It's important to note that there are limitations and exceptions to these options. For example, certain workers, such as independent contractors or agricultural workers, may not be covered by wage and hour laws. Additionally, there may be specific deadlines for filing complaints or initiating private actions.
In order to pursue these options, it may be necessary to gather evidence to support your claim, such as timesheets, pay stubs, and other documentation. It may also be helpful to consult with an employment law attorney to navigate the legal process and ensure that your rights are protected.
In summary, if your employer in Florida is not paying you the minimum wage or overtime, you have options to recover unpaid wages. These include filing a complaint with the DEO or DOL or bringing a private action in court. It's important to be aware of any limitations or exceptions to these options and to seek legal guidance if necessary.
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