Is this legal? could they reduce my pay?

Question

ok so i have been working for this company for 2 years and well the work has gone down in my boat but the company itself is not doing so good. i was the most high pay and they recently just told me that i am getting paid too much and that instead of firing me they are going to cut my salary more than 1/2 but working in the same position... i was devastated! one of my co workers that is really close to the boss told me that its because he wants me to quit so i wont file for unemployment... i went from making 41k a year to 26k is that legal?? my husband is talking to some attorneys but i have to wait for their response...mean while im still here because i dont want to give them the satisfaction that they are looking for in me quitting any help!!!

Answer 1

Yes, it's legal to reduce your pay.  But you might be eligible for unemployment if you quit due to that big of a cut - check with your unemployment comp people at your state.  But realize that even if you are eligible the benefits will likely be less that even your lowered salary.

Good luck.

Answer 2

keep all the paper work you need, copies of hours etc. go to the labor board

Answer 3

unless you have a written contract, yes, this is legal.  However, check with your unemployment office to see what the qualifications are for unemployment benefits.  Some states allow for exemptions for various negative actions (i.e., salary reductions, reductions in hours, etc.) when people resign (called "good cause.")

Check with your state unemployment office to determine what they consider good cause.  It could be that a large salary reduction is considered under this exemption.

Answer 4

no, it is absolutely not legal.  It is good your husband is talking to attorneys...be patient and wait for them to tell you what to do.  Your employer can not get away with this.  I would really like to know what happens with this, can you email me and let me know after the lawyers  get involved.