As lawyers for the workers, we make sure that employers pay you for the long hours you put in and give you the wages you are owed.
INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR UNPAID WAGE CLAIMS
Fighting For Fair Pay: Your Rights as an Independent Contractor
Unpaid wages are a widespread issue for independent contractors, who often struggle to collect the compensation they’ve rightfully earned. While contractors don’t have the same protections as employees, federal and state labor laws still provide legal pathways to recover unpaid wages, late payments, and contract violations.
If your employer or client has failed to pay you for completed work, you may have grounds to file an unpaid wage claim. Taking action now can help you recover your earnings and hold employers accountable.
At Josephson Dunlap, we are committed to just one thing: helping workers recover the fair pay they have earned. We help independent contractors fight wage theft.
Our experienced trial attorneys have helped more than 100,000 workers nationwide and have recovered hundreds of millions of dollars in unpaid wages on their behalf.
If you were not paid for work as an independent contractor, reach out to our firm today to learn how we can help. We help workers across the United States.
Call (888) 992-2990 or contact us online for a no-cost, no-obligation consultation. Hablamos español.
An independent contractor is a self-employed professional who provides services to businesses or clients without being classified as an employee. Unlike traditional employees, independent contractors typically do not receive benefits such as health insurance, paid vacation, or overtime pay. However, they still have legal rights regarding payment, contracts, and work conditions.
The criteria for determining independent contractor status vary by state and industry. Misclassification—when an employer incorrectly labels a worker as an independent contractor—can result in lost wages and benefits. If you believe you have been misclassified, you may have legal grounds to challenge your employment status.
What Are Your Rights as an Independent Contractor?
Regardless of your industry, if you are a legally classified independent contractor, you likely have the right to:
- ✔ Control how and when you perform your work-related duties
- ✔ Make decisions regarding work completion and business operations
- ✔ Choose where and when you work
- ✔ Negotiate and enter into employment contracts
- ✔ Independently advertise and promote your services
- ✔ Work with multiple clients or businesses
- ✔ Challenge your employment classification (if misclassified as an independent contractor or employee)
- ✔ Receive full payment for all hours worked and services provided
Independent contractors may be paid by the hour, day rate, or per project. The payment structure and terms are usually outlined in a written contract, which should clearly define compensation, work scope, and payment deadlines.
📌 **Important:** Some states, like California, require independent contractors to be paid at least twice a month. If you are not receiving timely payments, you may have a legal claim.
Are You Being Denied Fair Pay as an Independent Contractor?
If you believe your rights as an independent contractor have been violated—whether due to late payments, non-payment, or misclassification—you may be able to file an unpaid wage claim. Contact us today to discuss your legal options.
Steps to Take If You Were Not Paid for Work as an Independent Contractor
If you are an independent contractor and have not received payment for your work, there are several steps you can take to recover the wages owed to you:
1️⃣ Contact Your Employer
Before taking legal action, reach out to your employer or client and clearly explain:
- The work completed
- The amount owed
- The expected payment deadline
📌 Important: Keep all communication in writing (email, text, or letter) to create a record of your request.
2️⃣ Report the Issue to a Government Agency
If your employer refuses to pay, you can file a complaint with your state or federal labor agency. Agencies such as the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) and state wage and hour divisions investigate unpaid wage claims, issue orders for payment, and enforce penalties against employers who violate wage laws.
3️⃣ Seek Legal Assistance
If you are still unable to recover your unpaid wages, contact an experienced independent contractor wage attorney. At Josephson Dunlap, we help unpaid contractors across all industries take legal action against companies that fail to pay for all hours worked and services provided.
Why Choose Josephson Dunlap?
- Over 20 years of experience handling wage disputes
- Strong track record of success recovering wages for independent contractors
- Client-focused legal representation tailored to your unique situation
- Negotiation & litigation expertise—fully prepared to take cases to trial if needed
Take action today. Contact us for a free case review and let’s fight for the wages you deserve.
Give us a call at (888) 992-2990 or contact us online today to learn more during a free and confidential case evaluation.
MICHAEL JOSEPHSON
ANDREW DUNLAP
RICHARD SCHREIBER
DAVID MATHEWS
OLIVIA BEALE
ALYSSA WHITE
WILL HOGG
JULIA CLINE
SCOTT STOTTLEMYRE
How Employers & Contractors Fight Back Against Unpaid Wage Claims
When you file an unpaid wage claim, your employer or contractor will likely push back. Many companies underpay independent contractors—or fail to pay them at all—to cut costs. Because admitting wrongdoing could lead to legal and financial consequences, employers often use various defenses to avoid paying what they owe.
Common Employer Defenses Against Unpaid Wage Claims
Employers and contractors frequently try to justify non-payment using these arguments:
- Misclassification Claims: Arguing that you were actually an employee rather than an independent contractor
- Overtime Exemptions: Stating that independent contractors are not entitled to overtime pay
- Contract Disputes: Claiming that you failed to meet the terms of your contract or project agreement
How Josephson Dunlap Fights for You
At Josephson Dunlap, we know how to counter these tactics. Our attorneys are skilled in proving misclassification, contract violations, and wage theft, ensuring that independent contractors recover the pay they are owed.
Remember: Just because an employer disputes your claim does not mean they are right. You have legal options, and we are here to fight for you.
Take action today. Contact us for a free case review and let us help you recover the wages you’ve earned.
Are you an independent contractor who was not paid for work? Call (888) 992-2990 to discuss your rights.
Submit your case in as little as 10 minutes.
Form Submission
Complete the form, and we'll connect with you within one business day. For a faster response, call us at (888) 992-2990 or click our chat bubble.
Free Consultation
A personal case manager will quickly identify if you have a case. A quick 10-minute phone call is all it takes.
We Build Your Case
Your personal case manager will work with you to make sure you have everything you need for a strong case.
Get Your Wages Back
Once your case manager has everything, you just wait while we fight for your wages. We'll keep you updated on your case results and when you can expect your money.
"*" indicates required fields