Wage Claim
A formal complaint filed with the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry when an employer fails to pay wages that are owed.
A wage claim is a complaint you file with the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DOLI) when your employer has not paid you wages you earned. This can cover unpaid hours, missing overtime, illegal deductions from your paycheck, or a final paycheck that was never delivered. Filing a wage claim is free and does not require a lawyer.
When you file a wage claim, DOLI investigates. They will contact your employer and review the facts. If DOLI finds that your employer owes you money, the employer may be required to pay the wages owed plus penalties. Minnesota law allows for additional damages when employers intentionally withhold pay.
A wage claim through DOLI is different from filing a private lawsuit in court. The DOLI process is simpler and faster for most workers. However, for larger or more complicated disputes, a private lawsuit may be a better option. You can also file a wage claim and later decide to pursue a lawsuit if needed.
Why it matters: Many workers do not realize they have a free, straightforward way to recover unpaid wages. Filing a wage claim puts the state on your side to investigate and hold your employer accountable. You do not have to accept being shortchanged.
Example: Carlos worked at a restaurant in Rochester for three months. When he left, his employer refused to pay him for his last two weeks of work. Carlos files a wage claim with DOLI. After investigating, DOLI orders the restaurant to pay Carlos the wages he is owed, plus a penalty for the late payment.
When an employer has not paid you for hours worked, withheld your final paycheck, or made illegal deductions from your pay