This toolkit provides resources to help employers understand their basic responsibilities under federal labor laws enforced and administered by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division (WHD). Some states have labor laws that afford workers additional rights and protections; employers must comply with both federal and state laws.
If you discover past wage or leave mistakes, the PAID program may be able to help.
What you should know
Key things employers should understand to stay in compliance with the law:
- You are responsible for keeping certain records for each non-exempt worker, including hours worked and wages earned.
- Every employer must meet the requirements for minimum wage, overtime, and youth employment.
Information about how the laws applies to Auto Repair and Auto Maintenance shops.
- Handy Reference Guide to the Fair Labor Standards Act
- Application of FLSA to retail establishment
- Deductions for uniforms or other items
- Application of FLSA exemptions to blue-collar workers
- Automobile Dealers Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)
- Employees Paid Commissions By Retail Establishments
- Day Laborers Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)
- Car Wash and Auto Detailing Establishments Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)
- Misclassification of Employees as Independent Contractors
Still need more guidance? Ask us. WHD provides guidance on how laws apply to specific workplace situations. Request an Opinion Letter.
Here are additional tips and resources to understand your responsibilities as an employer.
- The FLSA prohibits retaliation against any employee who has filed a complaint or cooperated in an investigation.
- Employers and employees can keep accurate records of hours on the job with our DOL-Timesheet App. It’s free and available in English and Spanish.
How to Get More Information
If you have questions or need additional information, contact us online or call 1-866-487-9243 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. in your time zone.
Last updated on September 8, 2025.