Many companies employ remote agents to handle customer calls, provide customer service, and to handle general call center duties. However, many remote agents are not paid the required overtime pay for working more than 40 hours per week.
In July 2008, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage & Hour Division issued Fact Sheet #64, in which it alerted call center employees of certain abuses prevalent in the industry. In particular, the publication specifically condemns call center employer’s practice of not paying workers for the necessary job-related activities performed before and after their shifts:
In general, “hours worked” includes all time an employee must be on duty, or on the employer’s premises or at any other prescribed place of work, from the beginning of the first principal activity of the workday to the end of the last principal activity of the workday…. An example of the first principal activity of the day for agents/specialists/representatives working in call centers includes starting the computer to download work instructions, computer applications, and work-related emails.
Remote agents are often told by management that they are not entitled to overtime pay for these extra minutes a day. However, this is a clear violation of the Fair Labor Standards Act. In general, “hours worked” includes all time an employee must be on duty including starting the computer to download work instructions, computer applications, reviewing scripts, work-related emails, and other job requirements.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage & Hour Division, covered nonexempt employees are entitled to be paid at least the federal minimum wage as well as overtime at time and one-half their regular rate of pay for all hours worked over 40 in a workweek.
Our experienced remote agent overtime pay attorneys can determine whether you are entitled to overtime wages based upon your job description, job duties, rate of pay, and number of hours worked. You are entitled to these wages against your current employer or past tech support employer. There are strict time deadlines for filing lawsuits so it is essential that you contact an attorney immediately.
To help easily determine whether you are eligible to file remote agent overtime pay claim, you should contact our experienced overtime pay lawyers at (855) 754-2795 for a Free Consultation to discuss your case. You can also fill out the Free Unpaid Overtime Case Review Form on this page. We will discuss your situation and determine if you have a claim. There are absolutely no legal fees or costs unless you receive a settlement.
Remote Agent Frequently Asked Questions
What are the remote agent overtime pay laws?
Can a remote agent file an overtime pay lawsuit?