To report wage theft to the Utah Labor Commission, you need to file a wage claim alleging a violation of the Utah Payment of Wages Act. Here are the key steps and important details:
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Complete the Wage Claim Intake Questionnaire provided by the Utah Labor Commission. This form collects necessary information such as your employer’s identification (pay stub or W-2 form or explanation if none provided), the dates you worked without pay, and details about the wages owed. Claims must be filed within one year of when the wages were earned.
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Submit the completed form by email to wcu@utah.gov or hand deliver it to the Utah Labor Commission office. Make sure to provide all required information to avoid rejection; if your claim is rejected due to missing information, you will have 14 days to provide the missing details.
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The Wage Claim Unit only accepts claims for wages earned within the last year and for amounts of at least $50. You will need to certify that your claim is true and agree to appear at any hearing if requested. The Labor Commission may negotiate settlements on your behalf.
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For assistance or questions, you can contact the Utah Labor Commission main office at (801) 530-6800 or toll-free at (800) 530-5090.
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Alternatively, if your claim involves federal wage laws such as minimum wage or overtime under the Fair Labor Standards Act, you can file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division by phone at 1-866-487-9243. They will route your complaint to the nearest field office for investigation.
In summary, to report wage theft in Utah, you primarily file a wage claim with the Utah Labor Commission using their intake form and follow their instructions for submission and follow-up. The Commission enforces state wage laws and can assist in recovering unpaid wages. For federal wage issues, the U.S. Department of Labor is the appropriate agency.
🔴 Immediate Actions (Today or ASAP)
- Find and download the Wage Claim Intake Questionnaire from the Utah Labor Commission website or request it by phone.
- Gather your evidence: pay stubs, W-2 forms, work schedules, time sheets, or any proof of hours worked and unpaid wages.
- Complete the Wage Claim Intake Questionnaire carefully, including:
- Your employer's information (name, address, any ID from pay stub or W-2)
- The dates you worked without pay
- The amount of wages you believe you are owed
- Check that your claim is for wages earned within the past year and is at least $50 to meet filing requirements.
- Email the completed form to wcu@utah.gov or prepare to hand deliver it to the Utah Labor Commission office.
- Keep copies of everything you submit and any communication with the Labor Commission.
🟡 Short-Term Steps (This Week)
- Follow up with the Utah Labor Commission by phone at (801) 530-6800 or toll-free (800) 530-5090 to confirm they received your claim and check if any additional information is needed.
- If your claim is rejected for missing information, provide the requested details within 14 days to avoid dismissal.
- Prepare to certify your claim is true and be ready to attend any hearing if the Commission requests it.
- If your wage claim involves federal issues like minimum wage or overtime, call the U.S. Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division at 1-866-487-9243 to file a federal complaint.
- Document all phone calls and keep notes of the names and titles of people you speak with.
🟢 Strategic Follow-Up (Next 2-4 Weeks or Longer)
- Respond promptly to any requests from the Utah Labor Commission for more information or to attend hearings.
- Keep detailed records of any settlements or payments offered by your employer through the Commission.
- If the Commission does not resolve your claim, ask about next steps, such as filing a lawsuit or other legal remedies.
- Consider consulting a local employment lawyer or legal aid organization if your claim is complicated or if you need help understanding your rights.
- Maintain all records of correspondence, notices, and decisions related to your claim.
Your Legal Rights
Under the Utah Payment of Wages Act, employers must pay employees all wages earned on time and in full. You have the right to file a wage claim within one year of the unpaid wages. The Utah Labor Commission enforces these rights and can help recover unpaid wages.
If your claim involves federal wage laws such as minimum wage or overtime under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), you can file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Labor.
Your employer cannot legally retaliate against you for filing a wage claim. If retaliation occurs, you may have additional legal protections.
Where to Get Help
- Utah Labor Commission Wage Claim Unit
Phone: (801) 530-6800 or toll-free (800) 530-5090
Email: wcu@utah.gov
Address: Utah Labor Commission office (check website for current location) - U.S. Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division
Phone: 1-866-487-9243
Website: dol.gov/agencies/whd - Legal Aid Organizations in Utah
Search for local legal aid for free or low-cost legal advice if you need help filing or understanding your rights. - Utah Consumer Protection Division
May assist with employer complaints beyond wage claims.
Phone: (801) 530-6601
Keep all your documents organized and bring them when you seek help.
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