Not Paid What You Earned? Here's What That Means
If you've worked hours you weren't paid for or noticed gaps in your paycheck, it's hard to know whether it's a mistake or something more serious. Many workers assume they have no options, especially if they're salaried or unsure how wage laws apply to their situation. At The Holzman Law Firm, LLC., wage claims are evaluated based on what you actually earned and whether the law requires it to be paid—no guesswork, no assumptions. Across Maryland and Washington, D.C., workers dealing with unpaid overtime, missing commissions, or misclassification get clear answers about whether their situation qualifies as a claim.
The Most Common Wage Problems Workers Face
Unpaid Overtime
If you worked more than 40 hours but didn't receive overtime pay, your employer may be violating wage laws. A clear review helps determine whether your hours should have been compensated at a higher rate.
Misclassification
Being labeled as "exempt" or an independent contractor doesn't automatically remove your right to overtime. Proper classification depends on your actual job duties, not just your title.
Off-the-Clock Work
If you were required to work before clocking in, after clocking out, or during unpaid breaks, that time may still count as compensable hours.
Unpaid Commissions or Bonuses
Compensation that was promised as part of your pay structure—such as commissions—may still qualify as wages that must be paid.
Improper Deductions or Tip Issues
Unexpected deductions or missing tips can reduce your pay in ways that may violate wage laws.
Can You Still Recover Wages If You're Salaried?
Many workers assume that being paid a salary means they are not entitled to overtime or additional compensation. In reality, salary status alone does not determine whether you qualify for overtime—your job duties and classification matter. If you've been working long hours without additional pay, it's worth reviewing whether your role was properly classified. A straightforward legal review can help clarify whether you may be entitled to recover unpaid wages.
How Wage Claims Work in Maryland and Washington, D.C.
Wage claims typically begin with reviewing your pay records, schedules, and job duties to determine whether violations occurred. In Maryland and Washington, D.C., workers have legal pathways to recover unpaid wages through administrative claims or litigation. In Washington, D.C., employers may be required to pay up to four times the amount of unpaid wages, along with fees and penalties, depending on the violation. With The Holzman Law Firm, LLC., you receive clear guidance on which path makes sense for your situation and how to move forward without losing time.
Problems We Help Workers Solve Every Day
If your schedule regularly exceeded standard hours without proper compensation, your earnings may not reflect the work you actually performed. A structured review helps determine what should have been paid.
If your employer expected you to complete tasks outside recorded hours, those expectations may still count as paid time under the law.
If your job title suggests exemption but your duties don't match, your classification may not be accurate. Clarifying this can change how your pay should be calculated.
Common Wage Mistakes That Cost Workers Pay
Assuming Salary Means No Overtime
Many workers accept unpaid hours because they believe salary status removes overtime rights, when that's not always the case.
Not Tracking Hours Worked
Without records, it becomes harder to prove how much time was worked and what compensation is owed.
Waiting Too Long to Act
Wage claims are subject to deadlines, and delays can reduce what you're able to recover.
Relying Only on Employer Records
Employer timekeeping may not reflect all hours worked, especially for off-the-clock tasks.
If You're Not Sure, Start With a Simple Review
You don't need to have everything figured out before asking whether something is wrong. Many wage claims begin with a simple question about pay that doesn't seem right. The next step is reviewing your situation with someone who can explain what the law actually requires and whether your employer's practices meet that standard.
What to Expect When You Start a Wage Claim
When you reach out, the process is designed to be straightforward and focused on clarity. You'll begin by explaining your situation and sharing any available documents, such as pay stubs or schedules. From there, your case is reviewed to determine whether wage laws were violated and what recovery may be possible. If your claim moves forward, you'll receive guidance on the best path—whether that involves filing a claim or pursuing litigation. Throughout the process, you work directly with one attorney who keeps your case organized and moving forward.
Your Questions About Wage Theft, Answered
What counts as wage theft in Maryland and Washington, D.C.?
Wage theft can include unpaid overtime, off-the-clock work, misclassification, unpaid commissions, and improper deductions.
Can salaried employees still recover unpaid overtime?
Yes. Salary alone does not determine eligibility for overtime—job duties and classification are key factors.
What if I worked off the clock or during unpaid meal breaks?
That time may still count as compensable hours depending on the circumstances.
Can unpaid commissions or vacation pay be part of a wage claim?
Yes. Promised compensation, including commissions, may qualify as wages that must be paid.
How quickly should I speak with a lawyer about unpaid wages?
As soon as possible, since deadlines can limit how much you're able to recover.
Get Paid What You Earned—Without Guesswork
If your pay doesn't reflect the work you've done, waiting often makes it harder to recover what you're owed. The next step is getting clear answers about your situation and what the law requires. At The Holzman Law Firm, LLC., your case is handled directly, with a focus on helping workers across Maryland and Washington, D.C. move forward with clarity and confidence.