Trucking can be a rewarding career with competitive pay and the opportunity to travel while working. In most cases, drivers receive reliable compensation for their work as agreed.
However, in some situations, employees may experience delays or issues with wages owed. If you believe you have not been paid correctly or have not received wages you earned, you may have the right to file a wage claim through your state’s labor agency.
This guide provides general information on how to begin that process.
Before You File: Gather Documentation
If you believe wages are missing or incorrect, it is important to collect and retain all relevant documentation. This may include:
- Offer letters or employment agreements
- Pay agreements or rate confirmations
- Timesheets or logs of hours worked
- Text messages, emails, or dispatch communications
- Screenshots from payroll systems or apps
- Any written communication regarding pay rates or deductions
This documentation may be used to support your claim and clarify what was agreed upon and what was paid.
Filing a Wage Claim by State
Each state has its own process, deadlines, and agency responsible for handling wage complaints. Below are general steps for selected states. Requirements may change, so it is recommended to verify current procedures with the appropriate state agency before submitting a claim.
Find Your State Below to Obtain More Information on Filing Your Claim:
FreeWorld truly hopes you never have to use this guide. But if you do, know that standing up for yourself is the right thing to do. You worked hard for that paycheck, and you deserve every penny of it. 💪🚛
Note: Always keep copies of your submitted forms and any correspondence.
Texas
Agency: Texas Workforce Commission (TWC)
- File a wage claim under the Texas Payday Law
- Typically must be filed within 180 days of the date wages were due
- Submit a Wage Claim Form (WH-1) online, by mail, or fax
- Assistance: 800-832-9243
California
Agency: California Labor Commissioner’s Office (DLSE)
- File a Wage Claim (Initial Report or Claim)
- Can be submitted online or via DLSE Form 1 (where applicable)
- The agency may schedule a settlement conference or investigation
- Claims may include unpaid wages, overtime, or other compensation issues
Arizona
Agency: Industrial Commission of Arizona (ICA)
- Wage claims may be subject to limits and filing deadlines depending on claim type
- File a Wage Claim Form with the ICA
- Submit online, by mail, fax, or email (as available)
- The agency reviews claims and may investigate or mediate disputes
Colorado
Agency: Colorado Division of Labor Standards and Statistics
- File a wage complaint through the state labor division
- Submit online or by mail
- The agency may investigate wage disputes and determine potential violations
Iowa
Agency: Iowa Division of Labor
- Submit a Wage Claim Form to the Division of Labor
- Claims may be reviewed and assigned to an investigator
- Additional documentation may be requested during review
Minnesota
Agency: Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI)
- File a Wage Claim Form or contact the agency directly for instructions
- Email: dli.laborstandards@state.mn.us
- Phone: 651-284-5075
- Claims may include unpaid wages, deductions, or other compensation issues
New Jersey
Agency: New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development – Division of Wage and Hour Compliance
- File a Wage Complaint Form (MW-31A)
- Submit by mail, online, or as directed by the agency
- The agency may investigate and request additional employer or employee information
Important Notes
- Filing deadlines vary by state and type of claim
- Some claims may have limits based on amount or time worked
- Agencies may attempt to resolve disputes through investigation, mediation, or hearings
- Always keep copies of anything submitted, including forms and correspondence
Final Reminder
If you believe you are owed wages, it is important to act promptly and follow your state’s filing requirements.
While the process can feel overwhelming, state labor agencies are responsible for reviewing these claims and helping ensure employees receive wages they are legally owed.
You worked for your pay—you have the right to understand your options and take appropriate steps if something does not seem correct.