Can I deduct gas shortages from my employee's wages?

Full question:

I HAVE DRIVE OFF SHORTAGES OF GAS AT OUR GAS STATION. CAN I LEGALLY TAKE THESE SHORTAGES OUT OF MY EMPLOYEE'S WAGES. IF SO, IS THERE A PERCENTAGE THEY ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR OR ARE THEY RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL SHORTAGES.

  • Category: Employment
  • Date:
  • State: Virginia

Answer:

No deductions can be made from an employee's wages if it brings their earnings below the minimum wage or overtime pay. Employees cannot be required to cover losses that would reduce their wages below these legal thresholds, even if the loss was due to their negligence. Employers cannot sidestep minimum wage and overtime laws by having employees reimburse them for losses in cash or through wage deductions.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

If your register is short, you typically do not have to pay the difference from your wages. Employers cannot deduct amounts from your pay that would reduce your earnings below minimum wage or overtime pay. This includes cash shortages, even if they occur due to your actions. Employers are responsible for covering these losses, not employees.