Can an employer take away a pay check?

Question

I'm a cameraman and a few weeks ago I was setting up a camera on the tripod. I was next to it about to get the next cord and it fell. I did not tip it or anything the tripod is old and crooked. When the camera hit the floor only the plastic outside the viewfinder was cracked and everything works fine. The company has no insurance and my boss is making me pay for it. Can he just take my check without letting me know or signing anything?

Answer 1

it depends on the laws of your state, but generally NO.  The equipment that you were using is his, and he is responsible for it.  

Your salary is not touchable with out a court order.

I would be looking f r anew job

Answer 2

Well most companys have something somewhere in their policy that says that they can, its similar to a store charging you for your uniform.  Their other option would be to fire you so really it could be worse.

Answer 3

Not legally if it was their tripod too. It would be a victim of normal wear and tear.

Answer 4

It sounds as though you know he is making you pay for it and therefore it will come out of paycheck. He does not have to require you to sign anything or formally notify you, though most employers would formally notify you about it and also warn you with regards to it happening again, and losing job.  Even if company has insurance, most would require you to pay for it.  Responsibility. If the tripod is in such bad shape, YOU should have notified in writing, the boss, to cover yourself, and explained it could cause damage and you will not be reponsible.  You as the person using equipment are required to notify employers, boss, manager of condition of these things, otherwise this is the result. Always keep a copy for yourself to cover yourself.  Document everything....especially if others have access and you could end up taking blame.

Answer 5

Technically your employer can't deduct anything from your paycheck without your written consent, this even applies to benefits you may have. In some states your employer can fire you for any reason. Your employer can also make you life miserable. Check with your states Department of labor if you need ammunition on illegal deductions from your pay.  I worked at a place where the boss routinely bullied his employees but deducting things from their check when he was mad at them and everyone was afraid to stand up to him and just let it go even though it was against the law.

Answer 6

he can probobly cut your pay but he can't take it away because the law states you must be paid ATLEAST minimum wage, he can not make you pay for anything without a court order

Answer 7

Not usually.  You can file a complaint with your state department of labor.  You'll likely lose your job over it, though.