Verifying the accuracy of your wages

Going to work often feels much more satisfactory when you receive a fair wage. The income you anticipate can provide you with motivation to work harder and refine your skills.

Verifying the accuracy of your wages can help you recognize discrepancies. Looking in the right places can help you assess whether or not your employer has properly classified your position.

Understand your job description

A job description can provide a plethora of information regarding your job responsibilities, your employer’s expectations and details about your wages and benefits. If you question the accuracy of how much your employer pays you, reference your job description. Understand your role in the company, as well as what your employer promised in any contractual documents.

While it may seem a mere frustration to feel underpaid, misclassification can significantly impact your income. For example, if your employer classifies you as an independent contractor when your work qualifies you for employee status, you could lose out on all kinds of benefits. According to the IRS, misclassifying employees can have costly legal repercussions for your employer.

Compare your earnings

Another way to assess the accuracy of your wages is to compare your earnings with those of others doing the same job. You can research online to find industry averages for workers performing your job with similar educational backgrounds and professional accomplishments. You can also talk with your coworkers.

If you uncover a discrepancy or simply feel your employer underpays you, carefully bring your concerns to your supervisor. You can also express your concerns to human resources if your boss does not respond in a timely manner. If your employer continually refuses to amend your earnings, you may choose to contact an attorney to represent your case.