Unlawful Deduction of Wages

What can you do about unlawful deductions from wages?

To address unlawful wage deductions, the first step is to discuss the issue with your employer and try to resolve the matter with them informally. If that does not work, raise the issue formally, in writing, through your employer’s grievance procedure. 

If you do not achieve a satisfactory outcome, register your claim for unlawful deduction of wages with ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service). It is important to act as quickly as possible because you have just six months less one day of the unlawful deduction to register with ACAS. 

Where there has been a series of underpayments, the time limit begins from the date the last deduction was made. 

 When ACAS cannot settle your claim with your employer, your case can be referred to an employment tribunal where an employment judge will decide the outcome. 

Legal advice about unlawful deductions

Our employment law solicitors have years of experience in helping employees to make claims for unlawful deduction of wages. We understand that underpayment or non-payment of wages can have severe consequences for employees, and you have the right to be paid correctly.