Is it illegal to not pay for breaks under twenty minutes according to federal law?

I've been working for a company for the past two years and have never been paid for breaks, is this illegal and can I file a lawsuit for the back pay due, and resulting overtime.

2 answers  |  asked Oct 5, 2011 03:40 AM [EST] in Wage payment  |  applies to Illinois

Share on Facebook

Answers (2)

John Otto
The law requires the employer to give you two 20-minute breaks in an eight hour period. It's not clear whether you are not being given the breaks, or you're taking the breaks, but not getting paid for them. I don't think the law requires you to be paid for the breaks you are actually taking. In either case, contact the Illinois Department of Labor to file a complaint.

posted by John Otto  |  Oct 6, 2011 2:36 PM [EST]
Alejandro Caffarelli
If you are interested in scheduling an initial over the phone screening, please do not hesitate to contact me directly to arrange a date and time for a screening.

If you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule a consultation, I may be reached at (312) 540-1230.

posted by Alejandro Caffarelli  |  Oct 5, 2011 4:09 PM [EST]