Five Absolute Rights You Have as an Employee

Hannah Whittenly

August 12, 2013

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No matter what kind of job you do, being a part of an employer-employee relationship does not mean giving up all of your rights. There are five absolute rights you have as an employee, no matter where in the United States you are employed.

Your Right To Be An Employee

There are two basic categories of individuals that do work: independent contractors and employees. If you are doing work for a company and the employer can control what you do and how you do it, controls how you are paid or determines if expenses are reimbursed, and relies on you to perform a key aspect of their businness, then the Internal Revenue Service considers you an employee.

Your Right To Be Treated Fairly

No matter who you are employed by, you have the right to be treated fairly. Employers are not allowed to treat you differently because of your race, family, sex, age, disability, national origin, or religion. If you are being treated differently because of these things, then your employer may be breaking the law and you should contact an attorney, such as Birmingham Employment Attorneys, to discuss your claim.

Your Right To Be Free From Harassment

No matter what kind of job you work at, you have the absolute right to work in a place free of harassment and bullying. This means any comments or actions that are "vexing" and can be reasonably known to be unwelcome can be considered harassment.

Your Absolute Right To Pay

Wage and hour laws vary in every state, but throughout the United States, every worker has the right to fair pay. The Fair Labor Standards Act requires you are paid a minimum wage. If you are on salary, work on commission, or even paid a piece rate, the employer must pay you enough that the average is at least the federal minimum wage.

Your Right to be Free From Retaliation

If your employer is breaking the law or causing a danger to public health or safety, you have the right to report that illegal activity without retaliatory action against you. This means that the employer cannot fire you or take other adverse action against you if you raise a claim of illegal activity.

Most employment relationships work out well for everyone. Just keep in mind that having a job should never mean giving up your rights.