Not being paid on time - IT consultant

[rational_guy]

What is the name of your state? WA

Hi,

I am an IT cosultant who happen to be working on a H1B work visa, my last contracting opportunity happened to have had 2 layers of consultant. The lower layer was the one who sponsors my visa and the higher layers happens to be the preferred vendor through whom I happen to work for the client.

Recently I switched jobs and the preferred vendor owes me almost 60 days of my wages, its been a pattern the last 21 months just took them in my stride as I was still on the job working through them.

I expected them to clear up the dues when I had given them a two week notice before I left, they have not bothered to clear my dues and looks like it would take a while before I am paid. Can I take sue them for not paying me on time?

Thanks,
Sam

 

[pattytx]

Sam, if you were in fact an employee (as in, did they deduct taxes from your paychecks) and not an independent consultant, you can file a claim for unpaid wages with the Dept. of Labor and Industries, if the claim is under $5,000. If over that, or you were actually an independent consultant, you will have to get a private attorney and sue. See the FAQ page here: http://www.lni.wa.gov/WorkplaceRights/Wages/Termination/Wages/default.asp

And may I suggest trying to use the term used here in the U.S., which is "wages". Not to put you down, because I know that terminology differs by country, but everytime someone mentions "dues" here, I get think they're talking about a country club or their union. Good luck in getting your pay.

 

[rational_guy]

Hi Patty,

Thank you for the prompt response, I am sorry for the misuse of terminology (dues Vs salary). I did a calculate my wages yet to be paid before taxes, it works out to $22275. Since I work through two layers of consultants, it normally takes 30 ~ 45 days to be paid.

Can you kindly tell me what my legal options are.

Thanks,
Sam

 

[pattytx]

Since the amount is over $5,000, in your state, you will have to file suit against the employer. For the amount you quoted, I would recommend you find a local attorney to handle this for you.