Many employees in Maryland and Washington, D.C. just assume they are being paid fairly. However, wage theft and violations of wage and hour laws are difficult to identify. Whether it’s unpaid overtime, misclassification, or improper paycheck deductions, understanding your rights is crucial. Our experienced employment law team stands ready to demand just compensation.
Minimum Wage in Maryland and D.C.
Maryland and D.C. have higher minimum wages than the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. However, Maryland minimum wages can vary by county, such as Montgomery County and Howard County. Tipped employees are also subject to a different minimum wage. As of 2025:
- Statewide Maryland Minimum Wage: $15.00 per hour
- Washington, D.C. Minimum Wage: $17.95 per hour
Overtime Laws: Are You Owed More?
Non-exempt employees must be paid one-and-a-half times their regular hourly rate for all hours worked over 40 in a workweek. Common overtime wage violations include:
- Misclassification as exempt or ineligible for overtime
- Off-the-clock work, or being asked to complete tasks before clocking in or after clocking
- Unpaid work-related training sessions, events, or meetings
- Calculating tipped employees’ overtime at the tipped rate rather than minimum wage
If you suspect you’re not being paid correctly, you should keep detailed records of your hours worked and pay discrepancies and contact a skilled employment law attorney.
Misclassification: Employee vs. Independent Contractor
Employers often avoid paying employees all wages due by classifying them as contractors instead of employees. You may be misclassified as an independent contractor if your employer controls when, where, and how you perform your job duties, you are provided with equipment, uniforms, or office space, or you cannot work for other companies or negotiate your pay. Both Maryland and D.C. have strict tests to determine if a worker is an employee or an independent contractor. If you believe you have been misclassified, you may be able to recover unpaid wages.
Unpaid Wages and Wage Theft: What to Watch For
- Failure to pay wages on time (such as late paychecks or bounced checks).
- Illegal paycheck deductions that lower your pay below the minimum wage.
- Tip pooling violations, where tips are distributed unfairly.
Maryland and D.C. Employment Law Attorney: Your Essential Legal Ally
Consulting an experienced employment attorney can help you understand your wage and hour rights and maximize your recovery. At Ellison Sadri, it’s our mission to fight for your unpaid wages.
Contact us today or call us at (410) 974-6000 for a free and confidential consultation.