Federal Equal Pay Act Claims

Equality matters. Whether pertaining to race, gender, or sex, equality matters, and we all want to be treated equally, especially within the workplace. In today’s society, women and men are interchanging roles within the workplace. Gone are the days when only women are becoming nurses and only men are becoming construction workers. Though society is moving in a positive direction, unfortunately, when it comes to being compensated for the job done, men and women are often paid differently for the same work. This is not right and it is not legal, and you may have a claim against your employer if you find yourself in this situation. If you or a loved one is being unequally compensated at your job, it is in your best interest to contact an experienced Baltimore employment attorney so that we can strategize about the best possible outcomes for your situation.

Federal Equal Pay Act

The Equal Pay Act requires that men and women within the same workplace be given equal pay for equal work. It is important to note that the titles of your positions do not need to be identical; the Equal Pay Act states that the job content be substantially equal. The Equal Pay Act further suggests that a significant portion of the jobs be the same and involve the same level of skill, which includes the same level of experience, ability, education, and training and that the job have similar levels of mental and physical exertion. The Equal Pay Act covers all forms of pay, including:

• • Overtime pay;

• • Salary;

• • Bonuses;

• • Stock options;

• • Reimbursement for travel and expenses;

• • Life insurance; and

• Profit sharing and benefits.

Too many employers are still underpaying their female employees. One of the first steps that you can take to find out whether your salary is equal with your male counterparts is to either subtly ask your male counterpart about their salary or to do online research at one of the many websites that collect salary information from employees.  This information is important to know and can help you and your family live a better life. Seek legal advice and representation if you believe that you are not being paid equally, as you may have a case under the Equal Pay Act.

Need Legal Advice?

You need money to take care of yourself and your family. When you work, you expect to be paid not only reasonably, but also fairly and equally to other people doing the same work as you. When you are not paid fairly or equal to others in your same position, you have a right to make a claim against the employer, and for that you deserve a competent employment attorney to advocate for your rights. If you or a loved one is being unequally paid, it is in your best interest to contact an experienced Baltimore employment attorney at The Law Firm of J.W. Stafford to help you with your case.  You can contact us via our website or via telephone at 410-514-6099.