Maryland overtime attorney Bruce Luchansky answers the question: “Does it matter that I did not obtain my employer’s authorization or prior approval to work overtime?”

This question involves one of the many confusing wrinkles of overtime law – and it works in favor of the employee. The answer is NO, it does not matter (for purposes of being entitled to be paid) that the employee did not obtain the employer’s authorization or prior approval before working overtime. As long as the work is for the employer, the employee is entitled to be paid for it.

Be aware, however, of the wrinkle. If a company has a policy against working overtime without obtaining prior approval, the company is permitted to discipline you – even fire you, if that is the company’s policy. But your employer cannot elect not to pay you for the time you worked just because you did not obtain prior approval.

Overtime issues are confusing, and it makes sense to speak with an experienced Maryland overtime claims lawyer. If you believe that your employer owes you overtime or other wages, feel free to give us a call at Luchansky Law, and an Maryland overtime violation lawyer will explain clearly what your rights are.