A wage and hour consultant helps businesses ensure they comply with federal and state labor laws regarding wages, overtime, and other aspects of compensation and timekeeping. They can also assist in identifying potential compliance issues and developing strategies to minimize risk. 

Here’s a more detailed look at what a wage and hour consultant does:

Key Services:

• Compliance Reviews: Conducting audits of payroll practices, timekeeping, and employee classifications to identify potential non-compliance issues. 

•Employee Classification: Helping businesses determine whether employees should be classified as exempt or non-exempt from overtime pay requirements. 

•Overtime Calculations: Assisting with the accurate calculation of overtime pay for non-exempt employees, including determining the proper regular rate of pay. 

•Wage and Hour Law Interpretation: Providing expertise on the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and other state and local wage and hour laws. 

•Litigation Support: Offering advice and assistance in managing wage and hour lawsuits, including class action lawsuits. 

•Risk Management: Developing strategies to minimize the risk of wage and hour violations, such as proactive audits and policy development. 

•Training and Education: Providing training to management and employees on wage and hour laws and best practices. 

Who might hire a wage and hour consultant?

• Businesses of all sizes, especially those in industries with a high proportion of non-exempt employees or those facing potential wage and hour lawsuits. 

• Employers who are concerned about potential violations of the FLSA or other wage and hour laws. 

• Companies undergoing significant changes in their operations or workforce that could impact compliance. 

Benefits of Hiring a Wage and Hour Consultant:

• Compliance: Helps businesses avoid fines, back pay penalties, and other legal consequences associated with wage and hour violations. 

• Risk Reduction: Proactively identifies and addresses potential compliance issues, minimizing the risk of litigation. 

• Cost Savings: Can help businesses optimize their wage and hour practices, reducing unnecessary costs and potential liabilities. 

• Improved Employee Relations: Ensuring compliance with wage and hour laws can improve employee morale and trust.