Unlawful Deduction of Wages Solicitors
You have the right to be paid fairly and in full for the work you do. When your employer makes an unlawful deduction from your wages without a valid reason or your clear consent, you may be entitled to take action.
Unlawful deductions of wages can cause real stress, particularly if they affect your ability to meet financial commitments. Whether it’s unpaid wages, missing bonuses, withheld holiday pay, or sudden deductions you didn’t agree to, our employment solicitors are here to help you resolve the issue quickly and recover what you’re owed.
What counts as ‘wages’?
Under the Employment Rights Act 1996, ‘wages’ doesn’t just refer to your salary. It also includes:
- Bonuses and commission
- Overtime and holiday pay
- Statutory payments such as sick pay or maternity pay
- Any other payments you’re entitled to under your contract
If any of these are withheld or underpaid without a lawful reason, it may amount to an unlawful deduction.
When is a deduction lawful?
In most cases, deductions are only lawful if they are:
- Required by law (e.g. tax or student loan deductions)
- Set out clearly in your contract of employment
- Agreed to in writing before the deduction is made
Even where there are genuine overpayments which your employer is entitled to recover, sometimes it is possible to agree a repayment plan over a period of time.
Talk to our employment solicitors today
Our experienced employment lawyers can quickly assess whether a deduction is lawful and help you take steps to challenge it. We understand the financial and emotional impact of not being paid correctly, and we’ll work efficiently and sensitively to put things right — whether through negotiation, an internal grievance, or a legal claim if needed.
We’ve supported employees across all sectors to recover withheld pay, secure compensation, and move forward with confidence. If your employer has made a deduction from your wages and you’re unsure whether it’s lawful, we’re here to help.
Contact our employment team today for clear, practical advice and swift support. Use our online enquiry form or call one of our local offices to speak with a solicitor.