MARTIN Lewis’ MoneySavingExpert.com (MSE) has issued an urgent warning to half a million workers who could be underpaid.
The money saving site issued the warning to those on the national minimum wage, though the guidance affects everyone.
Martin issued a huge warning for workers on minimum wage
It comes as the minimum wage increased went up by 9.7%, up to £10.42 for workers aged 23+, as well as an increase for younger workers
Workers on minimum wage should expect a pay rise in April each year when a new rate comes in – and it starts from the first full pay cycle after the increase.
MSE said: “You should expect to receive your pay rise from the first full pay cycle after an increase comes in.
“So if you’re paid monthly, you should be paid the new rate from the first full month of work that comes after the increase.”
MSE also said some staff might be underpaid if they have to buy things to do their job including tools and safety clothing, or if they have unpaid working time such as arriving early to open up.
Another way the financial guru warned workers could not be getting their rightful pay is if they’re not being paid for ALL of their working time.
This includes overtime, training time, travelling time, waiting time, and regular ‘slivers’ of time added on to shifts, such as being asked to arrive early to open up, or queuing to pass through security checks.
“Unpaid working time’ also includes time spent on call at your workplace, and time spent travelling (if it’s part of your job).
“For example, if you’re a social worker doing home visits, your salary must cover the time it takes you to travel between each of your clients’ homes, as well as the time you spend with them,” it said.
Another thing to watch out for is if your employer pays for accommodation, it can reduce your pay but only by a certain amount.
And just because you work for a “big” corporation doesn’t mean your pay is correct – so make sure to check everything carefully.
What should I do if I’ve been underpaid?
Firstly, you could choose to have a conversation with your boss.
Consider whether you want to receive back pay or just be paid a higher rate going forward.
It will be helpful to have evidence of your claim including payslips and an idea of how much you have been underpaid.
You can also make a formal complaint at your company – check how to do this with the HR department.
If talking to your boss doesn’t resolve the issue, you could ask HRMC to investigate.
This can be done by anonymously reporting the company to HMRC online.
As part of the claim, you’ll be asked for some personal details and questions about your complaint.
You should agree to letting HMRC contact you as it might need more information to move your claim forwards.
The tax office will launch an investigation if it has enough information and will take action if it finds that your employer has not paid the correct minimum wage.
It can make your boss repay you the amount that’s missing, and this can be backdated by six years at the current minimum wage rate.
Your colleagues will also get a refund if they’ve been affected.
HMRC could also fine your employer or take it to court if it refuses to pay out.
However, it’s worth noting that these investigations can take several months.
Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing [email protected]
Did you miss our previous article…
https://hellofaread.com/money/six-tricks-to-get-the-most-from-tesco-clubcard-as-points-set-to-be-slashed/
