Existing user? Sign in
Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
Or refine your search by selecting a city:
Refine your search by selecting a city.
Wage and hour law in Arkansas is a set of rules that determine how much employees should be paid and how many hours they can work. These laws cover minimum wage, overtime pay, breaks, and other aspects of employment. Both federal and Arkansas state laws protect workers’ rights concerning their compensation and working hours. The purpose of these laws is to ensure that employees are paid fairly for their work and are not subjected to exploitative labor practices.
There are several situations where having a lawyer who specializes in wage and hour issues can be highly beneficial. Common scenarios include:
A lawyer can help you understand your legal rights, collect evidence, and take action against your employer if your rights have been violated.
Arkansas wage and hour laws are enforced alongside federal laws, especially the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Here are some key aspects relevant to Arkansas:
As of 2024, the minimum wage in Arkansas is $11.00 per hour for most employees. Some exceptions may apply based on business size and employee category.
Most hourly, non-exempt employees qualify for overtime pay, which is one and a half times their regular wage for any hours worked over 40 in a workweek.
Arkansas law does not require employers to provide breaks or meal periods, but many employers do so by practice. Federal rules may apply for nursing mothers or certain job categories.
You can contact the Arkansas Department of Labor and Licensing or the U.S. Department of Labor. You may also want to consult a wage and hour attorney to discuss your options.
Being paid a salary does not automatically exempt you from overtime pay. Exemptions depend on your job duties and salary level. Check with a legal expert to see if you qualify.
Employers can generally only make deductions that are legally permitted or authorized by the employee, such as taxes or health insurance premiums. Unauthorized deductions may be illegal.
Arkansas law requires that final wages be paid by the next regular payday after your employment ends, regardless of whether you quit or were terminated.
Yes, employers can pay tipped employees a lower cash wage, but total earnings (wages plus tips) must equal or exceed the state minimum wage.
Yes, but there are restrictions on the types of work and the number of hours minors can work. Special rules apply for workers under 18.
It is unlawful for employers to retaliate against employees who report wage and hour violations. You should document any retaliation and speak with an attorney or file a complaint with the appropriate agency.
If you need information or assistance with wage and hour issues in Arkansas, consider these resources:
Reaching out to these organizations can help you learn more about your rights and how to take action if you face a wage dispute.
If you believe your rights have been violated or you have concerns about wage and hour laws in Arkansas, start by gathering any documentation you have, such as pay stubs, time records, and written communications with your employer. Consider reaching out to one of the resources listed above for guidance.
You may want to consult an attorney who specializes in employment law. Many lawyers offer free initial consultations to review your situation and advise on your options. Taking prompt action can help you protect your rights and recover any unpaid wages.
Remember, strict time limits (statutes of limitations) may apply for filing wage claims, so do not wait too long to seek help. Being informed and proactive is the best way to ensure fair treatment in the workplace.
