IT sales representatives for A Canadian based information technology company have just resolved their claims of unpaid wages. This collective action lawsuit, which was originally filedless than two months ago, reached a settlement deal of $1.8 million to cover allegations of significant unpaid wages. Approximately 190 IT Sales Representatives that worked for Softchoice in Illinois between June 28, 2018, and Oct. 31, 2021stand to benefit from this payout.
The lawsuit specifically alleged that IT sales representatives were wrongly classified as exempt from receiving overtime payunder the Fair Labor Standards Act (“FLSA”) and the Illinois Minimum Wage Law (“IMWL”). Despite consistently working over 40 hours per work week these employees did not get paid at time and a half their regular hourly rate. In addition, they alsoclaimed to be owed meal and rest breaks under state law. The settlement will see each collective member receive an average of approximately $6,000 and a maximum of nearly $34,000.Despite Softchoice denying any wrongdoing, the settlement is an excellent result for its employees.
If you work long hours but don’t get paid overtime at a premium rate, you may be owed back pay. Companies often times avoid paying these benefits to save on labor costs by classifying a worker as overtime exempt. It’s important to remember that it’snot your job title that dictates whether or not you should receive overtime, but rather your day-to-day job requirements. If you have any questions or concerns about if you are being paid according to the law, give our employment law firm, Fitapelli & Schaffer, LLP, a call. We offer a free and confidential consultation at (212)300-0375. You can also find additional helpful information regarding your employment rights on our website here.