Wage Theft in Seattle’s Restaurant Industry: Know Your Rights
Seattle’s thriving restaurant industry provides jobs to many, but wage theft—when employers fail to pay workers what they’re owed—remains a significant issue. Despite Seattle’s strict labor laws, wage theft continues to impact restaurant workers. Here’s what restaurant employees need to know about wage theft and their legal rights. What Is Wage Theft? Wage theft occurs when employers don’t pay employees the full wages they’re entitled to. Common forms include: Wage Theft in Seattle Restaurants Restaurant workers are often vulnerable to wage theft for several reasons: Seattle’s Labor Laws and Penalties Seattle’s labor laws protect workers from wage theft and impose strict penalties for violations: Steps to Take if You’re a Victim of Wage Theft If you believe you’ve been subjected to wage theft: Conclusion Wage theft affects many restaurant workers, but Seattle’s strong labor protections give you the right to pursue justice. If your employer has underpaid you or denied overtime, you can file a complaint with the OLS and seek legal advice to hold them accountable.