Redditor Reveals Boss's Call To Clock In An Hour Ahead Of Their Shift — Netizens Raise Eyebrows Over Potential Wage Theft

“I think it's kinda weird that I'm expected to come in earlier than my shift and not be paid.”

Jesse

• Published in Interesting
• October 14, 2023

In the digital age, where time and money often walk hand in hand, the value of “extra hours” in the workplace cannot be underestimated. Indeed, the dedication of such employees contributes not only to increased productivity but also to the overall success of a company.

However, not all business owners appreciate this extra effort—in fact, most want to take advantage of it. Our story today centers around a Reddit user (OP) who refused to work unpaid extra hours like their colleagues, thus raising important questions about wage theft in workplaces.

OP’s post offers a glimpse into a scenario that is all too familiar to many employees.

Wage theft, often concealed behind well-meaning requests, can manifest itself in various ways. In this case, OP’s supervisor suggested arriving 30 - 60 minutes earlier than their shift to ensure all tasks are completed, and breaks are taken without rush.

This practice, while seemingly innocuous, is an insidious form of wage theft. Here, employees find themselves working extra hours without compensation.

It's important to note that the employees who have been with the company for decades have silently accepted this practice, effectively working an unpaid hour every day.

While OP has rejected this suggestion from their boss, they have begun to have doubts about being the odd one amongst other employees.

The story in detail

A little background

OP has refused to resume earlier than their shift unless they get paid for the extra time

Here’s how the Reddit community reacted to the story:

“NTA. That’s wage theft, and it’s illegal almost everywhere.“

According to these Redditors, OP manager is making an illegal suggestion and should be reported to the relevant authorities

“Don't start work early, without being paid. It is against labor laws to quirk without compensation.“

“Don't even come in FIVE minutes before your shift if its unpaid. Your coworkers may be ok with wage theft, don't be.”

“Absolutely not, especially if you’re an hourly employee.”

“If you are not being paid, DO NOT WORK. Full stop.”

“If you are in the US then what your employer is asking is illegal. You must be paid for the time you work.”

“It's unreasonable for your boss to expect it from you just because everyone else chooses to do it.“

“They are stealing from your coworkers and trying to steal from you as well. Report that shit.”

“NTA if you go in early, clock in early. Your time is not free to them.”

Important edit

OP’s reluctance to engage in this practice is entirely justified. It is disconcerting that they are expected to work unpaid hours, and even more so that they are not paid for the extra time before their scheduled shift.

The absurdity is compounded by the requirement to stay and work even if they finish early, further highlighting the blatant wage theft taking place.

From the comments, we can deduce that the Reddit community is backing OP on this matter. They have reiterated that what their supervisor is suggesting is illegal.

Commenters have urged OP to stand their ground and only work hours that they are paid for. In addition, OP has been advised to reach out to the relevant authorities to report what is going on at their workplace.

Have you ever experienced something similar in your career? If so, don’t hesitate to share your story with us in the comments.

Jesse