UNPAID TRAINING TIME: WHEN SHOULD YOU BE PAID FOR LEARNING?

Unpaid training time has been a common issue for many employees worldwide. Starting a new job and learning new skills can be an exciting experience but can also come with challenges. One of these challenges is the expectation that you’ll need to spend some time learning about your job without pay. Unfortunately, many employees are unaware of their rights regarding unpaid training time and often go with the flow.

Is Unpaid Training Time Really Unpaid?

First, you should understand that training time is not always unpaid. If the training you are undertaking is truly for the employer’s benefit, then it should be considered work, and, as a result, you should be paid for your time. If, on the other hand, the training is entirely voluntary and is not related to your job, then it is acceptable for your employer not to pay you for it. So, before you begin any training, make sure to understand whether or not you should be paid for your time.

The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)

The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) is a federal law that requires employers to pay employees for all time worked, including training time. It defines training time as time spent off the job in activities directly related to the job. If you are attending a training that meets this criteria, then your employer must pay you at least the minimum wage for your time spent in that training. The FLSA also requires that your employer must pay for any mandatory training.

On-the-Job Training

On-the-job training is training that occurs while you are performing your job duties. This type of training is generally considered to work, and you should be paid for the time you spend training. If you are not being paid for your training time, you should speak with your employer about it and, if necessary, file a complaint with the Department of Labor.

Job-Related Training

Job-related training is training that is directly related to your job, and that should be considered work. This includes learning how to use a new software program or operate a new piece of equipment. Even if the training is not mandatory, if it is related to your job, you should be paid for your time spent in that training. If your employer is not paying you for job-related training, you should speak with your supervisor or file a complaint with the Department of Labor.

What Can You Do?

If you believe that you are not being paid for training time that you should be paid for, there are steps you can take. Start by speaking with your employer or supervisor about your concerns. If this does not resolve the issue, you can file a complaint with the Department of Labor. Remember, your right is to be paid for all time worked, including training time.

Nationwide Unpaid Training Time Attorneys

If you’re an employee who believes you’re entitled to be paid for training time, and your employer is refusing to compensate you, Josephson Dunlap can help. Our experienced team can assist you with filing a complaint with the Department of Labor and ensure your rights are protected. Contact us today at (888) 742-7242 to learn more.