Best Wage & Hour Lawyers in Tennessee

About Wage & Hour Law in Tennessee, United States

Wage and hour law is a critical area of employment law that governs the payment of wages and the regulation of working hours for employees. In Tennessee, both state and federal wage and hour laws are in place to protect employees and ensure fair compensation practices in the workplace. These laws cover minimum wage, overtime pay, payday requirements, meal and rest breaks, and regulations on child labor. Compliance with these rules is essential for both employees and employers, and awareness of your rights and obligations is key to maintaining lawful and fair workplace practices in Tennessee.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

You may need a lawyer who specializes in wage and hour matters if you encounter issues such as unpaid wages, missed overtime payments, wage theft, improper deductions from your paycheck, misclassification as an independent contractor instead of an employee, or wrongful termination related to wage disputes. Employers may also seek legal guidance to ensure compliance with local and federal laws, develop lawful payroll practices, or defend against legal claims. If you are unsure whether your wages are being calculated properly or if your employer is meeting legal requirements, consulting a lawyer can help you understand your rights and options for legal recourse.

Local Laws Overview

In Tennessee, wage and hour protections are governed by a combination of federal and state laws. The main federal law is the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), which covers minimum wage, overtime, and child labor. Tennessee follows the federal minimum wage, which is currently set at $7.25 per hour. Tennessee does not have a separate state minimum wage law. Overtime rules require that most employees earn 1.5 times their regular rate of pay for hours worked over 40 in a workweek, with some exemptions for certain types of jobs and employees. State law also requires that employees must be paid at least once per month, and employers in Tennessee are not legally required to provide meal or rest breaks to most adult employees, although federal law may mandate breaks in certain situations.

Tennessee law covers special rules for minors under the age of 18, limiting the types of work and number of hours they can perform, especially during school hours and late at night. Employers must comply with state and federal recordkeeping requirements related to wages and hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum wage in Tennessee?

Tennessee does not have its own state minimum wage, so the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour applies to most employees in the state.

Are all employees entitled to overtime pay?

Most employees are entitled to overtime pay when they work more than 40 hours in a workweek, unless they meet specific exemptions set by federal law, such as being classified as exempt executive, administrative, or professional employees.

How often should I be paid in Tennessee?

Employers in Tennessee must pay their employees at least once per month, but many choose to pay more frequently, such as weekly or biweekly.

Can employers deduct money from my paycheck?

Employers are only allowed to make certain deductions from your paycheck that are required by law or authorized by you in writing, such as for taxes, insurance, or retirement contributions. Unauthorized deductions may be illegal.

Am I entitled to meal or rest breaks?

Tennessee law does not require meal or rest breaks for most adult employees, but minors must be given a 30 minute unpaid break if working six consecutive hours. Federal law may require breaks in specific circumstances.

What should I do if I think I am not being paid fairly?

If you believe your employer is violating wage and hour laws, you can file a complaint with the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development or the U.S. Department of Labor. You may also wish to consult an attorney to discuss your legal options.

What are the rules for youth employment in Tennessee?

Minors have specific restrictions on the types of work and hours they can perform. For example, 14 and 15 year olds can work a maximum of 3 hours on a school day and up to 18 hours per week during the school term.

Can my employer pay me less if I earn tips?

Employers may pay a lower direct wage to tipped employees, but your total compensation including tips must equal at least the federal minimum wage. If it does not, your employer must make up the difference.

What if my employer classifies me as an independent contractor?

Misclassification can result in loss of wage-and-hour protections. If you believe you have been misclassified, you may be entitled to unpaid wages, overtime, or other benefits, and should consult an attorney or file a complaint with local authorities.

How long does my employer have to pay me after termination?

In Tennessee, employees must be paid all wages due no later than the next regular payday after termination or quitting, either through normal pay channels or by mail if requested.

Additional Resources

If you need more information or assistance regarding wage and hour issues in Tennessee, consider reaching out to the following resources:

• Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development - Wage and Hour Division
• U.S. Department of Labor - Wage and Hour Division
• Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands
• National Employment Law Project
• Your local bar association or employment law attorney

Next Steps

If you believe your employer has violated wage and hour laws or if you need help understanding your rights, consider gathering pay stubs, work schedules, timesheets, and any correspondence with your employer about pay or hours. Contact the Tennessee Department of Labor or the U.S. Department of Labor to file a formal complaint if needed. You may also want to consult an attorney specializing in wage and hour law for personalized legal advice. Legal aid organizations are available for those with limited resources. Acting quickly can help preserve your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to under the law.