Trucking is a rewarding career with many perks. You can enjoy stable, competitive pay, the opportunity to travel and see the country while getting paid, and (in most cases) the convenience of backing into a dock without needing to unload freight yourself.
But let’s be real—the most important part is getting paid. No one wants to work for free.
So what happens if a company doesn't pay you what they promised?
Unfortunately, this situation happens more often than it should, especially to new drivers. Some companies take advantage of drivers and come up with excuse after excuse when it’s time to issue paychecks.
Below, you'll find the information and resources you need to file a claim for unpaid wages if this ever happens to you. (And we truly hope it doesn’t.)
Steps You Should Take:
-
Gather All Proof of Payment Agreements.
Save every bit of communication between you and the company regarding pay. This includes:- Paperwork (job offers, contracts, pay agreements)
- Text messages
- Emails
- Screenshots of dispatch messages or apps
You’ll need this to show what was agreed upon and what you are owed.
Find Your State Below to Begin 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)
Steps:
- File within 180 days from the date the wages were due.
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Form: Complete the Wage Claim Form (WH-1).
What It Is: This form is used to report unpaid wages under the Texas Payday Law. It allows you to detail the amount owed, the dates worked, and your employer's information.
- Submit: You can file online or mail/fax the form to TWC.
- Contact: Call 800-832-9243 for assistance.
California
Agency: California Labor Commissioner's Office
Steps:
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Form: Fill out the "Initial Report or Claim" (DLSE Form 1).
What It Is: This form initiates a claim with the California Labor Commissioner's Office for unpaid wages, overtime, or other labor violations. It collects information about your employment and the wages you're owed.
- Submit: Email, mail, or deliver the form to your local Labor Commissioner's Office.
- Process: A settlement conference may be scheduled.
Arizona
Agency: Industrial Commission of Arizona (ICA)
Steps:
- Limit: Claims must be $5,000 or less and filed within one year.
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Form: Complete the Unpaid Wage Claim Form.
What It Is: This form is used to file a claim with the Industrial Commission of Arizona for unpaid wages, bonuses, or other compensation. It requires details about your employment and the amount owed.
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Submit: Email, fax, or mail the form to the ICA
Colorado
Agency: Colorado Division of Labor Standards and Statistics
Steps:
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Form: Fill out the Wage Complaint Form.
What It Is: This form is used to file a complaint with the Colorado Division of Labor Standards and Statistics for unpaid wages or other labor violations. It gathers details about your employment and the compensation owed.
- Submit: Use the online portal or mail the form.
- Process: The division will investigate your claim.
Iowa
Agency: Iowa Division of Labor
Steps:
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Form: Complete the Wage Claim Form.
What It Is: This form is used to file a claim with the Iowa Division of Labor for unpaid wages. It collects details about your employment, the amount owed, and the dates worked.
- Submit: Mail or deliver the form to the Division of Labor.
- Process: An investigator will contact you.
Minnesota
Agency: Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI)
Steps:
- Contact: Email dli.laborstandards@state.mn.us or call 651-284-5075.
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Form: Complete the Wage Claim Form provided by DLI.
What It Is: This form is submitted to the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry to report unpaid wages, unauthorized deductions, or other wage issues. It requires information about your employer and the wages you're claiming.
- Submit: Email, mail, or deliver the form to DLI
New Jersey
Agency: New Jersey Division of Wage and Hour Compliance
Steps:
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Form: Complete the Wage Complaint Form (MW-31A).
What It Is: This form is submitted to the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry to report unpaid wages, unauthorized deductions, or other wage issues. It requires information about your employer and the wages you're claiming.
- Submit: Mail or deliver the form to the Division.
- Process: Your claim will be reviewed and investigated.